Ireland Launches Innovative Trials to Combat Chronic Pain

A consortium of MedTech and digital healthcare companies, alongside university researchers, has initiated groundbreaking clinical trials in Ireland aimed at providing long-term relief for individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain. This initiative, featuring a partnership among CrannMed, Salaso Health Solutions, the University of Galway’s Institute for Clinical Trials, and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, has secured a significant investment of €6.6 million from the Irish Government.

The funding, disclosed by Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, forms part of the latest allocation from the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund. This innovative project, known as the RECAP project (Resorbable Embolization for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain), aims to change the approach to chronic pain management.

Transforming Pain Management

The clinical trials will be coordinated by the University of Galway’s Institute for Clinical Trials and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences. The project will explore two complementary technologies designed to enhance outcomes for patients enduring chronic musculoskeletal pain. Participants will benefit from an advanced pain treatment developed by CrannMed, along with a structured recovery program crafted by Salaso, supported by clinical specialists.

In the first trial, involved patients will receive an injection that selectively restricts blood flow to the painful area, aiming to diminish inflammation and target the nerve endings responsible for their discomfort. This approach seeks to provide lasting relief without the need for more invasive treatments.

The second trial will evaluate patient recovery through an AI-enabled self-management platform, providing real-time support as patients engage in their recovery processes. This dual approach not only aims to reduce pain but also to empower patients to take control of their recovery journey.

Innovative Techniques and Future Impact

Beyond immediate treatment benefits, these trials will also enable researchers to develop new imaging techniques, innovative trial designs, and improved methodologies for measuring pain. These advancements are anticipated to establish new standards within healthcare systems.

Liam Farrissey, Chief Executive Officer of CrannMed, expressed pride in forming such a high-quality consortium within Ireland’s ecosystem. He highlighted the unique opportunity to offer treatment to Irish patients earlier than traditionally possible, stating, “If we are successful, it can pave the way to change the way we treat chronic pain.”

Aoife Ní Mhuirí, CEO of Salaso, underscored the advantage of localized treatment and recovery, which could save both time and money for patients and the healthcare system. She noted that this sustainable approach could set a new global standard for pain management.

Professor Fidelma Dunne, Director of the Institute for Clinical Trials at the University of Galway, believes the project holds the potential to revolutionize treatments for chronic joint and muscle pain. According to her, “The innovative treatment and clinical trial will enable patients to get effective, long-term pain relief from chronic pain without surgery or addictive drugs.”

The ongoing trials are expected to offer benefits that are significantly more effective than current standard treatments, such as steroid injections, which are commonly used for chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions. The consortium’s findings could reshape the landscape of pain management, benefiting countless individuals worldwide.

Through this pioneering initiative, Ireland is positioning itself at the forefront of chronic pain research and treatment, with the potential to influence global healthcare standards significantly.