Evaluating Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for TMD Pain: A Feasibility Study

This study is a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled feasibility trial designed to assess the acceptability and preliminary efficacy of Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation (tAN) for individuals with Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD). Approximately 40 participants will be enrolled to evaluate whether daily, home-based tAN sessions-which deliver mild electrical pulses to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve-can effectively reduce chronic orofacial pain and improve associated cognitive and psychosocial dysfunctions. The study monitors feasibility through retention and adherence rates while tracking secondary outcomes such as pain intensity, cognitive flexibility, and mood changes using validated scales and wearable smartwatch data . Ultimately, this research aims to generate the critical data necessary to inform larger clinical trials and potentially offer a non-pharmacological, non-invasive treatment option for patients refractory to traditional TMD therapies.