Vagal Nerve Stimulation

Non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation (nVNS) is a therapeutic technique that uses mild electrical impulses delivered through the skin to stimulate the vagus nerve, a large nerve pathway connecting the brainstem to nearly all major organs in the chest and abdomen. Unlike older VNS devices that required costly, surgically implanted electrodes, nVNS devices offer a safer and more accessible alternative for patients. The stimulation is applied externally, either through the neck (transcutaneous cervical VNS, or tcVNS) or by targeting a branch of the nerve located in the ear (transcutaneous auricular VNS, or taVNS). By modulating the activity of the vagus nerve, nVNS influences the body's control systems, including the autonomic nervous system, promoting a state of rest and recovery. It is believed to work by triggering the release of important brain chemicals (neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and acetylcholine) and by producing anti-inflammatory effects.

This therapy is being extensively studied for various conditions, particularly those involving stress and nervous system dysregulation. For instance, one nVNS device (gammaCore) has received FDA clearance for the acute treatment of migraine pain and episodic cluster headache, as well as for the prevention of cluster headaches. Non-invasive stimulation also shows promise for improving mental health in stress-related psychiatric disorders like major depressive disorder (MDD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and has been found effective in reducing levels of chronic stress and improving sleep quality. Furthermore, nVNS is being explored as an intervention to manage pain intensity in chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, and as an aid in recovery after stroke, as well as for managing symptoms in epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The treatment is generally well-tolerated, with reported side effects typically being mild and temporary, such as a tingling sensation or local discomfort