The need and starting point of this project was studying the limited resources available for managing dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain) as it affects 80% of women. From a biological perspective, it is associated to musculoskeletal pain which affects a third of the UK population.

“looop” is a non invasive pain relief device targeting users who experience musculoskeletal pain. It is portable and aimed to fit seamlessly within the user’s daily routine with a user based design for use at home or on the move. It can benefit users who suffer different types of pain on their body, originating from arthritis to dysmenorrhoea.

It utilises electrical pulses and heat to efficiently alleviate the discomfort. The pulses stimulate the afferents (A-beta) in dermatones and consequently inhibits engagement within the second order nociceptive transmission neurons in the central nervous system. This effect is achieved by an increase in pulse amplitude, generating a firm yet comfortable and painless paraesthesia underneath the electrodes around the targeted area.