The PainKARE is indicatied for Temporary relief of pain of sore and aching muscles, joints, and tissues due to strain from exercise or normal household and work activities.
Device Story
PainKARE is an OTC transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) for temporary pain relief. The device consists of two stimulator pads connected by a USB cable. It operates via a microprocessor-controlled system that delivers biphasic electrical waveforms to the body. The device is powered by a rechargeable battery. Users operate the device to provide electrotherapy, with adjustable treatment times ranging from 30 minutes to 4 hours. The device includes safety features such as automatic overload protection, automatic no-load alarm, and automatic shut-off. It is intended for use by individuals to manage pain from muscle or joint strain. The healthcare provider or user monitors the device status via an operational indicator. The device provides a non-pharmacological method for pain management.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. The device was tested for electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility per AAMI ES 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-2, IEC 60601-1-6, AAMI HA60601-1-11, and IEC 60601-2-10. No clinical data was provided.
Technological Characteristics
Microprocessor-controlled TENS device; ABS plastic enclosure; rechargeable battery power source; biphasic waveform output; 50μA regulated current; 0.3Hz frequency; Type BF patient leakage current classification; compliant with AAMI ES 60601-1, IEC 60601-1-2, IEC 60601-1-6, AAMI HA60601-1-11, and IEC 60601-2-10.
Indications for Use
Indicated for temporary relief of pain in muscles, joints, and tissues caused by strain from exercise or normal household and work activities. Suitable for OTC use.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator for pain relief is a device used to apply an electrical current to electrodes on a patient's skin to treat pain.
{0}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/0/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the Department of Health & Human Services - USA. The logo features a stylized human face in profile, with three overlapping heads. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" is arranged around the image.
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
November 21, 2015
TrioWave Technologies Attn: Ms. Parul Chansoria Regulatory Consultant for TrioWave Technologies 3984 Washington Blvd. #166 Fremont, CA 94538
> Re: K151034 Trade Name: PainKARE Regulation Number: 21 CFR 882.5890 Regulation Name: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator for pain relief Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: NUH Dated: October 20, 2015 Received: October 23, 2015
Dear Ms. Chansoria:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration. Please note: CDRH does not evaluate information related to contract liability warranties. We remind you however, that device labeling must be truthful and not misleading.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code 27f Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical
{1}------------------------------------------------
device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please contact the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its tollfree number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Resourcesfor You/Industry/default.htm. Also, please note the regulation entitled. "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportaProblem/default.htm for the CDRH's Office
of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance.
You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
# Carlos L. Pena -S
Carlos L. Peña, PhD, MS Director Division of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{2}------------------------------------------------
# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K151034
Device Name PainKARE
Indications for Use (Describe)
The PainKARE is indicatied for Temporary relief of pain of sore and aching muscles, joints, and tissues due to strain from exercise or normal household and work activities.
Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable)
Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
|X | Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
#### CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED.
This section applies only to requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
#### *DO NOT SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE PRA STAFF EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW.*
The burden time for this collection of information is estimated to average 79 hours per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather and maintain the data needed and complete and review the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this information collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to:
> Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration Office of Chief Information Officer Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Staff PRAStaff@fda.hhs.gov
"An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB number."
{3}------------------------------------------------
# 5. 510 (K) Summary
This 510(k) Summary has been created per the requirements of the Safe Medical Device Act (SMDA) of 1990, and the content is provided in conformance with 21 CFR Part 807.92.
#### 5.1 Submitter's Information
| | Table 1-Submitter's Information |
|---------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------|
| Submitter's Name: | Huiyou Zhu, Founder |
| Company: | TrioWave Technologies. |
| Address: | 3984 Washington Blvd., #166<br>Fremont, CA 94538 |
| Contact Person: | Parul Chansoria,<br>Elexes; Elexes Medical Consulting Pvt Ltd. |
| Phone: | 650-528-2445 |
| Fax: | -------- |
| Email: | parul@elexes.com |
| Date of Summary<br>Preparation: | October 20, 2015 |
### 5.2 Device Information
| Table 2-Device Information | |
|----------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------|
| Trade Name: | PainKARE |
| Common Name: | Transcutaneous electrical nerve<br>Stimulator |
| Classification Name: | Stimulator, nerve, Transcutaneous, Over-the-counter |
| Classification Number: | Class II per 21 CFR 882.5890(b) |
| Product Code: | NUH |
| Classification Panel: | Neurology |
# 5.3 Predicate Device Information
Painmaster MCT Patch (K090042; K130114)
{4}------------------------------------------------
#### 5.4 Device Description
PainKARE is an OTC medical device intended to temporarily relieve pain due to strain from exercise or normal household work or activities via electro-therapy. The Device consists two Stimulator pads connected by a USB cable for Electrotherapy.
PainKARE's Stimulator pads operate in a programmable micro-current mode and deliver Biphasic waveforms which in turn provide electrical stimulation to the body that aids in relieving pain.
#### 5.5 Indications for Use
The PainKARE system is indicated for "temporary relief of pain of sore and aching muscles, joints, and tissues due to strain from exercise or normal household and work activities".
#### 5.6 Technological Characteristics
The PainKARE (Subject Device) makes use of two Predicate Devices; Painmaster MCT Patch (K090042; K130114) for the Stimulator pads (for electrotherapy).
| Table 3-PainKARE (Stimulator pads) vs. Painmaster MCT Patch (K090042; K130114) | | | | |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------|
| Parameter | Painmaster MCT<br>Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K090042 | Painmaster MCT Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K130114 | Proposed Device<br>(Subject Device)<br>PainKARE<br>Stimulator | |
| Manufacturer | Newmark Inc. | Newmark Inc. | TrioWave<br>Technologies | |
| Indications for use | Temporary relief of<br>pain associated with<br>sore and aching<br>muscles in the lower<br>back due to strain<br>from exercise or<br>normal household<br>and work activities. | Temporary relief of<br>pain associated with<br>sore and aching<br>muscles in the upper<br>and lower extremities<br>(arm and/or leg) due<br>to strain from exercise<br>or normal household<br>and work activities. | Temporary relief of<br>pain of sore and<br>aching muscles,<br>joints, and tissues<br>due to due to strain<br>from exercise or<br>normal household<br>and work activities. | |
| Operation Mode | Waveform: pulsed<br>square wave.<br>Amplitude: 50μA<br>Frequency: 0.5Hz<br>Polarity: Mono-phasic | Waveform: pulsed<br>square wave.<br>Amplitude: 50μA<br>Frequency: 0.5Hz<br>Polarity: Mono-phasic | Waveform: pulsed<br>square wave.<br>Amplitude: 50μA<br>Frequency: 0.3Hz<br>Polarity: Biphasic<br>(Alternating Mono-<br>phasic) | |
| Power Source(s)† | Primary battery only.<br>One time use | Primary battery only.<br>One time use | Primary Battery only.<br>Rechargeable | |
| Micro-processor<br>Control | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Table 3-PainKARE (Stimulator pads) vs. Painmaster MCT Patch (K090042; K130114) | | | | |
| Parameter | Painmaster MCT<br>Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K090042 | Painmaster MCT Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K130114 | Proposed Device<br>(Subject Device)<br>PainKARE<br>Stimulator | |
| Automatic<br>Overload<br>Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Automatic No Load<br>Alarm | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| User Override<br>Control | No | No | Yes | |
| Operational<br>Indicator | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Time Range | Not adjustable. Up to<br>250 hours | Not adjustable. Up to<br>250 hours | 30 minutes to 4<br>hours, depending on<br>pain | |
| Housing Materials<br>and Construction | Plastic (ABS)<br>enclosure | Plastic (ABS) enclosure | Plastic (ABS)<br>enclosure | |
| Body contact<br>material | Electrode, CE certified | Electrode, CE certified | Electrodes, FDA<br>approved | |
| Maximum Average<br>current | 50 μA | 50 μA | 50 μA | |
| OTC use | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Dimensions (in.) [W<br>x H x D] | 1.55 x 0.29x1 | 1.55 x 0.29x1 | 1.2" x0.6" x1.6" | |
| Weight | 0.03 lb. | 0.03 lb. | 0.1 lb. | |
| Operating<br>temperature and<br>humidity | 10-45°C, 20%-90% | 10-45°C, 20%-90% | 10-45°C, 20%-90% | |
| Method of Line<br>-<br>Current Isolation | N/A | N/A | N/A | |
| Patient Leakage<br>-<br>Current++ | Type CF | Type CF | Type BF | |
| - Normal<br>Condition (μΑ) | Unspecified | Unspecified | 0 | |
| - Single Fault<br>Condition (μΑ) | Unspecified | Unspecified | 50μA | |
| Average DC current<br>through electrodes<br>when device is on | 0 | 0 | N/A (Pulse always<br>applied when on) | |
| Table 3-PainKARE (Stimulator pads) vs. Painmaster MCT Patch (K090042; K130114) | | | | |
| Parameter | | Painmaster MCT<br>Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K090042 | Painmaster MCT Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K130114 | Proposed Device<br>(Subject Device)<br>PainKARE<br>Stimulator |
| but no pulses are<br>being applied (µA) | | | | |
| Number of output<br>modes | | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Number<br>of Output<br>Channels<br>††††: | Synchro<br>nous or<br>Alternati<br>ng? | 1 channel,<br>monophasic | 1 channel, monophasic | 1 channel, biphasic<br>(alternating<br>monophasic) |
| | Method<br>of<br>Channel<br>Isolation | NA | NA | NA |
| Regulated Current<br>or Regulated<br>Voltage? | | Regulated Current | Regulated Current | Regulated Current |
| Software/Firmware<br>/Microprocessor<br>Control? | | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic<br>Overload<br>Trip? | | No | No | Yes |
| Automatic No-Load<br>Trip? | | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Shut<br>Off? | | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indicator<br>Display: | On/Off<br>Status? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| | Low<br>Battery? | No | No | Yes |
| | Voltage/<br>Current<br>Level? | No | No | No |
| Table 3-PainKARE (Stimulator pads) vs. Painmaster MCT Patch (K090042; K130114) | | | | |
| Parameter | Painmaster MCT<br>Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K090042 | Painmaster MCT Patch<br>(Predicate Device)<br>K130114 | Proposed Device<br>(Subject Device)<br>PainKARE<br>Stimulator | |
| Compliance with<br>Voluntary<br>Standards? | Yes, UL260,<br>EN60601-2 Part1, A1<br>& A2<br>EN 60601-2-10, Part<br>2-10<br>EN 60601-1-2 EMI | Yes, UL260,<br>EN60601-2 Part1, A1 & A2<br>EN 60601-2-10, Part 2-<br>10<br>EN 60601-1-2 EMI | Yes, AAMI ES 60601-<br>1,<br>AAMI HA60601-1-<br>11,<br>IEC 60601-1-2<br>IEC 60601-1-6, IEC<br>60601-2-10, | |
| Compliance with 21<br>CFR 8987? | N/A | N/A | N/A | |
#### 5.6.1 PainKARE (Stimulator pads) vs. Painmaster MCT Patch (K090042; K130114)
{5}------------------------------------------------
{6}------------------------------------------------
{7}------------------------------------------------
#### Similarities:
- . The Subject and the Predicate devices have the same intended use and indications for use.
- Both the Subject and Predicate devices have similar technological characteristics, namely, number of output channel and output current (50μA), and have the same operating temperature and humidity ranges.
- Both devices are microprocessor controlled, and utilize certified/cleared electrode pads.
- The Subject and the Predicate Devices also have same features like the automatic overload trip protection, automatic no load trip, automatic shut off, operational Indicator and no current display.
- . The subject device has rechargeable battery whereas the Predicates do not have a rechargeable battery.
#### Differences:
- . The Subject device operates in biphasic waveforms/modes, whereas the Predicates only operates in monophasic mode/waveform.
- There are some minor technological differences namely user override control etc.
#### 5.7 Performance Data
The following Performance testing has been performed on the Subject Device in accordance with appropriate FDA guidance documents and relevant standards, to support the determination of substantial equivalence. The test data showed that the Subject device is safe and effective for its intended use as compared to the Predicate.
- . The Subject Device was tested to conform to the electrical and safety requirements established in AAMI ES 60601-1 and the electromagnetic compatibility requirements in IEC 60601-1-2.
- The Subject Device was also tested to conform to IEC 60601-1-6, and AAMI HA60601-1-11 and IEC 60601-2-10.
{8}------------------------------------------------
## 5.8 Conclusion
Based on the comparison of intended use and key technological characteristics, the PainKARE (Subject Device) is substantially equivalent to the Predicate Device.
Predicate graph will load when search results are available.
Embedding visualization will load when search results are available.
PDF viewer will load when search results are available.
Loading panels...
Select an item from Submissions
Click any panel, subpart, regulation, product code, or device to see details here.
Section Matches
Results will appear here.
Product Code Matches
Results will appear here.
Special Control Matches
Results will appear here.
Loading collections...
Loading
My Alerts
You will receive email notifications based on the filters and frequency you set for each alert.
Sort by:
Create Alert
Search Filters
Agent Token
Create a read-only bearer token for Claude, ChatGPT, or other agents that can call HTTP APIs.
Copy this now. It will not be shown again.
Connected apps
Apps you authorized through browser sign-in. Disconnecting revokes their access immediately.
Learn the FDA Browser
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.