Focused Ultrasound Proves Promising in Easing Deep-seated Pain

Researchers at Virginia Tech’s Fralin Biomedical Research Institute Uncover Potential Non-Invasive Pain Relief

Blacksburg, VA, February 6, 2024 – A groundbreaking study led by Wynn Legon, assistant professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC, reveals the potential of low-intensity focused ultrasound in alleviating deep-seated pain by targeting the insula—a region deep within the brain responsible for pain perception. Published in the journal Pain, the proof-of-principle study explores the non-invasive modulation of pain perception and associated physiological responses through the application of focused ultrasound.

Key Insights:

1. Targeting the Insula: The study focuses on the insula, a deep brain region linked to pain perception. By directing low-intensity focused ultrasound to this area, researchers aim to understand its impact on altering the perception of pain and physiological responses.
2. Non-Invasive Ultrasound: Using the same technology as prenatal ultrasound imaging, focused ultrasound delivers narrow bands of sound waves to a precise point within the brain. At low intensity, it induces transient biological effects, such as modifying nerve cell electrical activity.
3. Proof-of-Principle Study: The research involved 23 healthy human participants subjected to induced pain on the backs of their hands. Simultaneously, focused ultrasound waves were delivered to the insula guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
4. Pain Reduction: Participants reported an average pain reduction of three-fourths of a point on a scale of 0 to 9. While seemingly small, this reduction is considered clinically meaningful and could offer an alternative to managing chronic pain without resorting to prescription opioids.
5. Physiological Responses: The study observed a reduction in physical responses to pain-induced stress, including heart rate and heart rate variability. This suggests that focused ultrasound may not only impact pain perception but also influence the body’s overall response to pain.
6. Quality of Life Impact: The potential for reducing the reliance on prescription opioids in chronic pain management could significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from persistent pain.

Future Directions:

The study paves the way for further exploration of the heart-brain axis and how focused ultrasound might mitigate the cardiovascular stress effects associated with pain. Understanding the intricate interplay between the heart and brain could open new avenues for non-invasive pain relief techniques and improve overall health outcomes.

As the field of neuromodulation continues to evolve, focused ultrasound emerges as a promising candidate for non-surgical interventions, offering potential breakthroughs in pain management and enhancing the well-being of individuals grappling with chronic pain.