tVNS works by passing a small electrical current through a part of the ear so that it stimulates the Vagus nerve.
Learn about transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS)
Updated: November 6th 2021
Vagus Nerve Stimulation
What is tVNS?
Vagus nerve stimulation is a method used to boost a weak or under-active vagus nerve. It can be said to describe any technique that stimulates the vagus nerve. However our expertise and this article is about electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve.
Electrical stimulation involves a targeted micro-current being applied to the nerve. Electrical impulses pass through the vagus nerve and supplement the nerves natural response.
The frequency and intensity of the electrical impulse varies. This allows different stimulation protocols to target different vagal functions.
Because the electrical impules reach the brain, Vagus Nerve Stimulation is considered a type of neuromodulation.
How does stimulation work?
A battery operated device generates an electrical signal that is connected through the nerve via electrodes.
The device sends regular mild pulses of electricity into the nerve.
The process is imperceptible and there is no sensation from the vagus nerve itself*.
Since the nerve is connected to so many organs this electrical signal can have far reaching effects.
Figure 1. Illustration showing Vagus Nerve Stimulation pathways.
Why Vagus Nerve Stimulation?
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) was first used in the 90's as a treatment for epilepsy.
Early VNS involved an implanted device directly attached to the vagus nerve.
This device sent electrical signals to the vagus nerve in a similar way to a pacemaker sending electrical signals to the heart.
Figure 2. Illustration showing implanted Vagus Nerve Stimulator
Conditions treated by Vagus Nerve Stimulation
To date VNS has been approved for the treatment of two separate medical conditions
- drug resistant Epilepsy
- drug resistant Depression
It has also been shown to help several other conditions including
- Alzheimer's disease
- Anxiety disorders
- Headaches
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Obesity
However these are not yet medically approved uses of implanted VNS.
Internal vs External Stimulation
Following the success of implanted vagus nerve stimulators researchers began exploring external stimulation options.
Implanting a stimulator carries with it the inherit risk of surgery. So if a suitable external method of stimulation could be found it would reduce the overall risks involved.
External Stimulation Locations
Two possible locations for external vagus nerve stimulation were quickly identified:
- the neck
- the ear
tVNS Summary
Because the vagus nerve is the primary mode by which the body relaxes and recuperates, its stimulation has restorative and healing effects on health and wellbeing.
- Promote Digestion and Restorative Functions
- Reduce "Fight-or-Flight" Response
- Strengthen the Immune System
- Balance Parasympathetic Nervous System
Easy to Use
tVNS is a very easy technology to incorporate into your daily routine. It requires no preparation and is easy to setup - simply clip to your ear.
Rebalance
Stimulating your vagus nerve increases the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system. This restores bodily homeostasis (nervous system balance), improving health, strength and wellbeing.
14 Days
With just 15 minutes per day of stimulation you should feel results after two weeks. If you do not, use the 45 day guarantee to return for a full refund.
tVNS for Medical Conditions
If you have medical conditions requiring treatment you should consult with your doctor or physician.
- Should not be used for Depression
- Should not be used for Epilepsy
- Unsuitable for treatment of any medical condition
tVNS is only available to promote general wellness in healthy adults seeking to rebalance their autonomic nervous system.
Next:
The tVNS Stimulator
Learn about our tVNS Device
tVNS News
The latest transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation posts from our Vagus Nerve Stimulation blog.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation
What is tVNS?
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation is a method used to boost a weak or under-active vagus nerve. It can be said to describe any technique that stimulates the vagus nerve. However our expertise and this article is about electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve.
Electrical stimulation involves a targeted micro-current being applied to the nerve. Electrical impulses pass through the vagus nerve and supplement the nerves natural response.
Electrical stimulation involves a targeted micro-current being applied to the nerve. Electrical impulses pass through the vagus nerve and supplement the nerves natural response.
How does tVNS work?
What is Vagus Nerve Stimulation Used For?
Vagus Nerve Stimulation has been used to treat epilepsy and depression. This is done with implanted Vagus Nerve Stimulators. Scientists are now researching non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation using devices that connect to the ear. This is being used to investigate other possible benefits of VNS.
What are the known side-effects of tVNS?
Reported side-effects are minimal and include skin irritation or redness under the electrode.
Can tVNS Help with Migraines?
Yes. There is some data that indicates people suffering from headaches, cluster headaches and migraines may see some benefit from the use of tVNS; for example see this scientific study
However, as reported, actual results may be dependent on the individual and may vary.