AuriculoTherapy NeuroImaging

The cryo-IQ device (containing compressed nitrous oxide) with a narrow-tip nozzle will be used. After disinfection of the device and both ears, 7 inter-related points in the auricular cartography will be treated with a 1-2 second application of cold gas, applied to both ears. Treatment points will be: mesoderm master, spine, reticular formation, sensory master point, thalamus, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and corpus callosum.

For the sham procedure, an empty gas canister will be used in the cryo-IQ device. This will make the same noise and temporary skin imprint on the ear, but does not deliver any cooling effect. The same 7 ear points will be sham-treated in a protocol that is imperceptibly different from the verum auriculotherapy treatment.

Three points on each ear will be repeatedly stimulated with a plastic (von Frey) filament. This will be felt, but not be painful and should not result in lasting irritation.