What is Vagus Nerve Stimulation? | A Look at the Pulsetto FIT
Sponsored Content: This video contains paid product placement. Thank you to Pulsetto for sponsoring this video and providing Doctor Jo with a free Pulsetto FIT device to use. If you purchase products from these links/ads, Doctor Jo will earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) uses gentle electrical impulses to stimulate the vagus nerve. The vagus nerves control our parasympathetic system (resting and digesting) by sending signals to the brain to release calming neurotransmitters.
The vagus nerves are some of the longest nerves in the body. They carry signals between the brain, heart, and digestive system, so when the signals are not working correctly, they can cause a lot of issues in the body. Some studies show that by stimulating the nerves, it can help treat conditions like epilepsy, depression, headaches, and chronic pain because the vagus nerve helps activate your relaxation response which helps the body “rest and digest.” With most of these studies, these devices are implanted and invasive.
Recently wearable devices that stimulate the vagus nerves have become more popular. The Pulsetto FIT is designed to use electrical impulses on the neck area to help improve relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall wellbeing.
I’ve also taken a look at the Pulsetto Lite which is their entry level model. Watch that video here!
A sampling of Vagus Nerve Stimulation Research Studies:
Finding a comfortable position to sleep at night can be challenging for some people. People who sleep on their sides and suffer from back, hip, and/or shoulder pain may find these tips helpful to get a better night’s sleep.
Doctor Jo shows you three simple chest stretches to get your muscles loosened up if you have tight chest muscles or sore pectorals (pectoralis) from a workout.
These simple breathing exercises are great for people with COPD or for people who want to be able to hold their breath longer like swimmers or surfers. These are also great for relaxation.
Breathing exercises can be a great way to help relieve stress and anxiety. This video focuses on two relaxing breathing techniques: Square breathing (aka box breathing, 4x4 breathing, 4-part breath, etc.) and Pursed breathing.
If you're a truck driver or a delivery driver, sitting all day can put a lot of stress on your body, especially your back, bottom, legs, and hips. These stretches and exercises are a great way to help keep your body moving for all kinds of drivers and anyone who sits a lot throughout the day.
When the pectoralis (pec) muscles are strained, overused, or even tightened due to bad posture, it can cause chest pain and tightness. These easy chest pain relief techniques should help, but it’s always important to check in with your doctor if you are having chest pain to rule out any serious conditions.
Muscles and joints can become sore and irritated for many reasons including stress, over working the muscles, or an injury. These gentle stretches should help relieve sore muscles and joints.
