Auricular Acupressure for Pain Management in Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

The purpose of this study is to determine if the addition of auricular acupressure to the typical pharmacological regimen given to patients on the chronic pain/addiction service will lower pain scores and decrease pain medication usage.

Inclusion Criteria:Age > or equal to 18History of documented chronic pain with or without opioid use disorder (Polysubstance abuse or opioid use disorder or opioid narcotic use documented as home medication)Estimated length of stay (admission) at least 5 days at the time of recruitmentAble to read and understand informed consent formExclusion Criteria:Patient refusalPatients with a known history of leaving against medical advice (AMA)only English-speaking participants will be eligible.Inability to communicate via telephoneParticipants with a history of skin disease (e.g., psoriasis) involving the ear, adhesive allergy, recent scar tissue on ear, or current abrasions or cuts on ear,Cognitive impairment (delirium, dementia)Physical impairment preventing them from applying pressure to the beadsPatients with cardiac pacemakers (contraindication to POINTER PAL)Use of some types of hearing aids (obstructing the placement of beads)Any chronic or acute illness or psychiatric conditions that would impact adherence to the study requirements