Sound Waves Treating Pain and Depression
A new device, called the Diadem, has shown promising results in relieving pain and depression during clinical trials. It uses sound waves to target specific areas of the brain with millimeter accuracy. While non-drug treatments like this can raise skepticism, especially given the widespread use of SSRIs for depression, the research team is enthusiastic.
Lead author Tom Riis, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Utah’s Department of Biomedical Engineering, reports significant improvements in patients after just one 40-minute session.
“Not every participant saw drastic changes, but for those who did, the results were remarkable,” said Riis. “In some cases, you could see the difference immediately—their mood and behavior had completely shifted.”
The device is in phase 2 trials, and the team is eager to move forward. Of 20 participants, 60% reported a 33% reduction in pain right after treatment. For those with depression, 10 of 14 reported remission a week later after just one session.
The Diadem sends ultrasonic frequencies to areas of the brain involved in pain and emotion regulation, like the anterior cingulate cortex. The device’s precision allows it to reach the target areas through the skull.
One patient described the experience as their brain “waking up,” while another reported feeling unusually clear-headed while walking through a grocery store. The team is now recruiting participants for phase 3 trials and can be contacted at diademclinicaltrials@gmail.com.