Ear zaps for tummy troubles? new study tests nerve stimulation for stomach pain
NCT ID NCT03603730
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 07, 2026 · Updated 3 times
Summary
This study tests whether a mild electrical pulse to the ear (taVNS) can change how the brain and stomach interact in people with chronic indigestion or gastroparesis. Researchers will use brain scans and stomach electrical readings to see if the stimulation helps. The goal is to find a new, drug-free way to ease stomach discomfort.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- auricular transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (taVNS) device
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-drug, ear-stimulation treatment for chronic stomach discomfort and bloating.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early exploratory study with only 65 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The stimulation may not produce meaningful symptom relief.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States
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