FDA Approves Electrically Simulating Nerves to Ease Arthritis Pain

Physicians in the United States can now prescribe a non-invasive, non-drug device to relieve arthritis and other types of pain.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the CT1 Pain Control Bandage that relieves pain by electrically stimulating nerves through the skin, a technology known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation.

By attaching directly to the affected area to provide relief from pain, the small, wireless device has minimal side effects and offers an alternative to narcotics and other commonly used drugs in the treatment of some types of pain.

The device was developed by Cyclotec Medical Industries, Inc., in Lauderhill, Florida with support from NIDA's Small Business Innovation Research Program.

The device recently won an award from Research & Development Magazine as the one of the 100 best new science and medical technologies of the year.

Other sources: National Institute on Drug Abuse