Analgesic effect of neuromodulation using the AT-04 portable magnetic field-generating device in a patient with neuropathic pain: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Neuromodulation by magnetic field through the AT-04 (ait® (AT-04); Peace of Mind Co., Ltd., Kumamoto, Japan) has improved allodynia in neuropathic pain model rats. This report focuses on neuromodulation through magnetic field exposure using the AT-04 that provided an analgesic effect in a patient with neuropathic pain. Case presentation A 47-year-old man presented with flaccid paralysis and extensive neuropathic pain and scored 7 on the 11-point Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for his left upper limb. The patient was treated with neuromodulation by magnetic field exposure using the AT-04. Baseline NRS scores were obtained three times daily during the baseline period (days 1–5). Magnetic field exposure was then performed for 30 min three times daily (morning, noon, and evening) at home for 36 days, which was termed the intervention period (days 6–41). During the baseline period, the median NRS score was 7 and the baseline NRS score for calculating the percentage of nonoverlap data (PND) was 6. During the intervention period, the median NRS score was 4 and the PND value of the NRS score was 77.8% (28/36). Neuromodulation by magnetic field exposure using the AT-04 effectively decreased the patient’s NRS score. The patient had no adverse effects during the intervention period. Conclusions Neuromodulation by magnetic field exposure using the AT-04 was effective in decreasing the NRS score in a patient with neuropathic pain. The AT-04 portable magnetic field-generating device shows potential as a therapeutic option for refractory neuropathic pain.