Development and Evaluation of Vibration and Alternating Temperature Stimuli of a Roller-type Itch-relief Device

Abstract

Painful thermal stimulation is known to inhibit the itch sensation, which is a significant problem for many diseases. We focused on the thermal grill illusion, which is well-known phenomenon that can generate pain or a burning sensation without physical damage; we tried to achieve a similar effect via thermal stimulation at a harmless temperature. We have developed a roller-type itch-relief device. When the device is rolled on the user's skin, the skin is alternately exposed to hot and cold stimuli. In addition, vibration is applied so that a virtual scratching feeling is presented without damaging the skin. This paper evaluates the device by eliciting an itch using a lactic acid solution and then applying the device. Results show that the device is effective in terms of relieving the itch sensation, and the effect continued for 8 minutes.