Auricular non-invasive electrical stimulation, at certain locations and with the right frequencies, has the potential to help type 2 diabetes patients, in particular alleviate Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) pain. Pacinian corpuscles, the low-threshold, fast adapting mechanoreceptors, are among the first to deteriorate in distal regions with diabetes. They play a key role in pain modulation, contributing to about 90% of gate control pain relief, as demonstrated in a recent study by Hollins et al. (2017). These corpuscles are present in the external ear skin and in the lining of the ear canal. They are associated with the reflex mechanism that could expel foreign objects in the canal by means of glandular secretion and muscular contraction.

Activation of the Pacinian corpuscles generates sensory input that may not only modulate nociceptive signals at the spinal cord level but also engages cranial nerves, such as the vagus nerve, which are integral to the inflammatory reflex. This reflex helps inhibit the inflammatory response by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other markers of inflammation. Additionally, the stimulation of these pathways triggers descending inhibitory mechanisms from the brainstem, further enhancing pain relief and contributing to systemic anti-inflammatory effects. This expanded view of gate control theory incorporates both spinal and supraspinal mechanisms, highlighting the multifaceted benefits of auricular stimulation in modulating pain and inflammation.

Current auricular stimulation products on the market may not have the correct electrode positioning, use single cathode and anode placed close to each other, and the frequencies are limited to tens of Hz, thus failing to fully engage the Pacinian corpuscles. Our multi-cathode/anode stimulation paradigm would offer a powerful non-addictive, adjunctive method for managing both DPN pain and diabetes. By using the right frequencies and appropriate duty cycle, along with our proprietary Duplet Cathodes Therapy (DCT™), the EvokedRx™ auricular non-invasive electrical stimulation approach reduces skin sensation, recruits the right sensory fibers and mechanoreceptors, ensuring continuous, effective stimulation that targets both inflammation reduction and pain relief.

Reference: Hollins M, Corsi C, Sloan P. Pacinian signals determine the direction and magnitude of the effect of vibration on pain. Perception. 2017; 46(8):987–99. doi: 10.1177/0301006617694630