Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) shows promise in reducing motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease, including freezing of gait. Stay with us in the rest of this article.

In a recent clinical trial, a non-invasive VNS (nVNS) device administered at home using a handheld device showed positive effects.

Here are the key findings from the trial:

• Treatment Approach : The nVNS involves delivering gentle electric pulses to the vagus nerve , a crucial communication pathway between the brain and the body. Unlike surgically implanted VNS devices, this non-invasive approach doesn’t require surgery.

Clinical Benefits :

• Improved Walking and Motor Abilities : After one month of nVNS treatment, participants experienced better walking and motor abilities.

Eased Freezing of Gait :

Patients reported relief from the sensation of their feet being “glued” to the floor during freezing of gait episodes.

Biological Effects :

• Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroprotective Effects : The therapy led to a reduction in pro-inflammatory molecules and an increase in antioxidant and nerve cell survival molecules.
  
  

Promising Potential :

These effects suggest that nVNS may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.

Next Steps : While these early findings are encouraging, larger trials are needed to confirm the benefits of nVNS in Parkinson’s patients.

The study underscores the potential of nVNS as an adjunctive therapy for Parkinson’s disease, particularly in addressing freezing of gait. Researchers are optimistic about further exploring its efficacy in this indication¹².

Remember that this innovative approach involves a portable hand-held device, making it more accessible for patients. As science continues to advance, non-invasive treatments like nVNS offer hope for improving the quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

(1) Hand-held Device for Vagus Nerve Stimulation of Benefit in Parkinson’s. 

(2) Noninvasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation May Improve Parkinson Disease …. 

(3) Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation improves clinical and molecular ….