Nerve stimulator offers drug-free pain relief

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — One Oklahoma Nurse Practitioner is trying to provide relief for patients by using a drug-free option. It's approved by the FDA, and after Congress implemented the No Pain Act in January of 2025, it is covered by most insurance providers.

Studies have shown that the Morph Device is an alternative to taking opioids to help with pain relief.

"I mean, I hope that this is in every clinic available to every Oklahoman. It works, and it's a better alternative than a pain pill," said Deana Glenn, a Nurse Practitioner at OK Theta and Wellness.

OK Theta and Wellness is the first office in Oklahoma to offer the Morph Device. The four tiny needles are connected to certain nerves in the ear. Then, pulsing from the device helps with blood flow to those painful areas.

"It sticks behind the ear and so it's all connected. And then, you know, those little needles are just going to the acupuncture points. But I mean, the entire body is on the ear. And so, you know, we can pick where they go and it can help with so many different things," said Glenn.

Eugene Hildebrandt has dealt with pain in his back and neck for years and took multiple muscle relaxers a day. Wanting a change, he learned about the Morph Device.

"So I went and I didn't expect anything to really help," said Eugene Hilderbrandt, a patient at OK Theta and Wellness.

After just 10 days of using the device, Hilderbrandt saw results.

"I haven't had to take pain medication for the first time in almost 18 years. I was just kind of stunned. But I didn't need them," said Hilderbrandt.

Glenn said that with the device being a drug-free option for treating these conditions, it's better for patients in the long run, as it helps with pain in the body.

"With the morph device, you're getting improved blood flow to the area. So you're actually starting to get healing. And, you know, so eventually you don't need those opioids," said Glenn.

"I'm not sure it works for everybody like for me... But it's been a blessing for me," said Hilderbrandt.

Glenn also said that, in addition to helping with removing the need to take as many drugs for pain, the FDA-approved treatment also helps with diabetic neuropathy, post-surgical pain, and IBS in children.