Nicklaus Children's Hospital is recognized as an IB-STIM Center of Excellence, dedicated to caring for pediatric patients struggling with functional abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) using the IB-STIM device.
IB-STIM Centers of Excellence are proven dedication to improving the quality of life for young patients (ages 8-21) suffering from functional abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Since inaugurating the IB-STIM program in 2019, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital has established and followed best practices to meet pediatric IBS patients’ varying needs. As a result, Nicklaus Children’s offers the most robust IB-STIM program in the Southeast and one of only four IB-STIM Centers of Excellence in the United States.
IB-STIM is a small, electrical nerve-stimulating device that children wear behind their ear to help reduce abdominal pain related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It was recently approved by the FDA and is a non-drug alternative to relieving this type of pain for patients ages 11 to 18.
The IB-STIM device fights chronic abdominal pain by emitting painless, low-frequency electrical pulses that stimulate the nerve branches of the cranium. The device is worn behind the ear for 5 consecutive days before it is replaced, and it can be used for up to 3 weeks in a row before the patient takes a break. The treatment is typically recommended for treating chronic abdominal pain.
In studies, children using the IB-STIM showed few side effects and significant improvement in their pain from using the IB-STIM device.
The IB-STIM device may not be the appropriate treatment for all children with IBS or other forms of chronic abdominal pain. A health care provider may conduct certain tests and review the child’s medical history to determine if it’s the right choice for your child.
There’s a minor risk of ear discomfort or adhesive allergy from using the IB-STIM device. IB-STIM is not recommended for patients with pacemakers, hemophilia or the skin condition known as psoriasis vulgaris.
Sisters Liv and Eva suffered from debilitating abdominal pain and inflammation. After frequent trips to the emergency room became a part of their routine and countless doctor visits, they found hope at Nicklaus Children's with the groundbreaking IB-STIM treatment.
