Neurostimulation and tAN® Research
Grounded in clinically evaluated neurostimulation research and technology.
The Outer Ear as the Gateway to the Nervous System
Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation (tAN®) delivers precisely calibrated electrical stimulation through the outer ear. This engages the vagus nerve and trigeminal nerve pathways that govern autonomic function, pain perception, inflammation, mood, and recovery.
By targeting these pathways, tAN® devices can modulate the autonomic nervous system on demand. This provides therapeutic effects that would otherwise require medication, surgery, or intravenous delivery.
This platform is the result of years of research, clinical validation, and partnership with some of the world's foremost academic medical institutions — and it continues to reveal new possibilities across a growing range of health applications.
Peer-Reviewed Clinical Work
In a peer-reviewed clinical study evaluating Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation (tAN®) during menstruation, participants demonstrated measurable improvements across multiple menstrual outcomes.
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Participants reported decreased overall cycle-related discomfort
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Participants experienced a measurable decrease in average menstrual length
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Participants reported improvement in cycle-associated digestive symptoms
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Participants experienced a significant reduction in menstrual blood loss during the treatment cycle.
The Role of Platelets During Menstruation
Neurostimulation and Hemostasis
Emerging research shows that the nervous system plays an important role in how the body regulates blood flow, including how platelets respond and prepare during the menstrual cycle. This connection between nerve signaling and platelet activity highlights the powerful link between the brain and the body. By gently supporting vagus nerve activity, neurostimulation may help encourage a more balanced, regulated menstrual experience and overall sense of ease.
Clinical Study Findings
Behind the Results
A decentralized study was conducted in an at-home setting, allowing participants to use the device during one treatment cycle compared to one baseline cycle without use. Participants wore the device for two hours per day during menstruation. Menstrual blood loss was measured using the validated Pictorial Blood Assessment Chart (PBAC).
Building on these findings, a larger pivotal clinical study is now underway.
There are continual options to explore new applications for tAN® through partnering with institutions through the Sparrow Link program.
Sparrow Link is a non-invasive, wearable neurostimulation research platform that empowers research teams to tap into and customize the transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation.
Ongoing Research
