Using a device at home to stimulate a nerve in the ear to help manage pain in young adults with IBS

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of home-based transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) as a non-invasive method to help manage pain and symptoms in young adults suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The approach focuses on stimulating a specific nerve in the ear to potentially improve the brain-gut interaction and alleviate distressing symptoms associated with IBS. Participants will be involved in a randomized trial comparing the effects of active taVNS versus a sham treatment, assessing factors such as feasibility, safety, and adherence to the intervention. This study aims to explore a practical and accessible pain management strategy for young adults aged 18-29 with IBS.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Yale University
  New Haven, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Cong, Xiaomei Sophia — Yale University
• Study coordinator: Cong, Xiaomei Sophia

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.