How can Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improve Stroke Rehab?

On today’s episode, Dr. Nick talks about the beneficial effects of vagus nerve stimulation during stroke rehabilitation. Conventional physical therapy for stroke rehabilitation is a combination of stretching and strengthening dysfunctional limbs to improve motor function. A recent clinical trial has shown that combining vagus nerve stimulation with typical therapy can improve motor function at a greater rate. Vagus nerve stimulation can be done with an implanted device on the nerve in the neck or via the skin directly on a branch of the nerve on the ear. There are many theories to how vagus nerve stimulation can improve outcomes, but the most likely explanations are due to its anti-inflammatory effects and the release of activating neurotransmitters. Check out the video for more in depth information on how vagus nerve stimulation can improve stroke rehabilitation!
Dawson J, Liu CY, Francisco GE, et al. Vagus nerve stimulation paired with rehabilitation for upper limb motor function after ischaemic stroke (VNS-REHAB): a randomised, blinded, pivotal, device trial. Lancet. 2021;397(10284):1545-1553.
Briand MM, Gosseries O, Staumont B, Laureys S, Thibaut A. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation and Disorders of Consciousness: A Hypothesis for Mechanisms of Action. Front Neurol. 2020;11:933.

[@dezmar7144]

What frequency was used in the auricular vns trial?

[@dezmar7144]

D you have a stroke protocol for avns?

[@gotskillz135]

Is this still available

[@PhilipFreed]

big neuro centers like ours use it