Using electrical stimulation to improve pain management
Official title: CRCNS: Computational Model of Chronic Pain Analgesia via Closed-Loop Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10876936 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with chronic pain by using a special device that sends electrical signals to nerves, adjusting the treatment based on how your body responds, so you can get better relief with fewer side effects from medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $374,699 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AT011844-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876936 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions who have not found relief through conventional treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain that does not transition to chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to managing chronic pain through closed-loop peripheral nerve stimulation. By using electrical stimulation of nerve fibers, the study aims to adaptively adjust pain relief parameters based on real-time feedback from the body, rather than relying on a fixed approach. This method seeks to enhance the effectiveness of pain treatment while minimizing side effects associated with traditional pharmaceuticals. Patients may experience a more personalized and responsive pain management solution.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and tailored approach to managing chronic pain, potentially reducing reliance on opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using neuromodulation techniques for pain management, but this closed-loop approach is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sarma, Sridevi V. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Sarma, Sridevi V.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.