Chronic pain is a common, complex, and distressing problem that afflicts more than 20 percent (50 million) of the population in the United States and more than 1.9 billion people worldwide. The condition arises from a series of events or injuries, including but not limited to traumatic injury, obesity, congenital disorders, nerve damage and sports injuries. Treatment commonly involves medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, and opioids, as well as injections into the painful muscles and tissues. However, due to the recent drug addiction epidemic, medical providers and patients are seeking alternative methods to combat this devastating condition.

The technology described herein is a minimally invasive device for the treatment of chronic pain through the use of neurostimulation. It uses electrical signals delivered directly to the spine and peripheral nerves for pain relief. Also, it's comprised of novel biocompatible protein-substrates or polymers that reduce infection and inflammation while providing flexibility for comfort.

Potential Application

The device may be used for the treatment of chronic pain, thereby reducing or eliminating the use of addictive opioid medications. Over the past several years, the FDA has approved several neurostimulation devices that have demonstrated clinical benefit in patients for reducing chronic pain throughout various areas on the body.

Opportunity

The global market for chronic pain was $69 billion in 2017 and expected to exceed $105 billion by 2024 at a CAGR of 6.4 percent. Growth of the sector is attributed to the increasing geriatric population, prevalence of chronic health conditions, renewed R&D, and government support for treatment. The rapidly growing neurostimulation market was valued at $5 billion in 2018 and is anticipated to exceed $13 billion by 2026.

Rowan University is looking for a partner for further development and commercialization of this technology through a license.