Nerve stimulation therapy, also known as neuro-modulation, is a type of medical treatment that uses electrical impulses to stimulate specific nerves in the body in order to alleviate chronic pain, neurological conditions, and other chronic medical conditions. There are several different types of nerve stimulation therapies available, each with its own set of benefits and potential side effects.
One of the most widely used forms of nerve stimulation therapy is called Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). TENS therapy uses a small device that delivers electrical impulses to the skin surface over the affected area. The electrical impulses are designed to stimulate the nerves, which can help to reduce pain and improve muscle function. TENS is most commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, neuropathic pain, and low back pain.
Another form of nerve stimulation therapy is called Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS). SCS involves the implantation of a small device in the lower back, which sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord. This can help to reduce pain by blocking or altering the pain signals that are sent to the brain. SCS is most commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions such as chronic back pain and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is another form of nerve stimulation therapy that is used to treat conditions such as epilepsy and depression. VNS involves the use of a small device that is implanted under the skin of the chest, and is connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. The device sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, which can help to reduce seizures in patients with epilepsy and improve symptoms of depression.
Another form of nerve stimulation therapy is called Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS). PNS involves the implantation of electrodes near the affected nerves and sends electrical impulses to the nerves. This can help to reduce chronic pain, improve muscle function, and improve sensory function. PNS is most commonly used to treat conditions such as chronic pain, peripheral neuropathy, and complex regional pain syndrome.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a form of nerve stimulation therapy that is used to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor. DBS involves the use of a small device that is implanted in the brain, and is connected to electrodes that are placed in specific areas of the brain. The device sends electrical impulses to the electrodes, which can help to reduce symptoms of the conditions that it is used to treat.
Overall, nerve stimulation therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for many conditions, including chronic pain, neurological disorders and other chronic conditions. However, as with any treatment, there can be potential side effects, so it is important to consult with a medical professional before starting any form of nerve stimulation therapy. It is worth to mention that, these therapies are still under research and development and not all of them are approved by FDA for all conditions and not all patients are good candidates for this treatment. Consultation with a specialist is recommended.
Quantum Brain Healing relies on a base of orthomolecular medicine including amino acids, vitamins, minerals, herbs, botanical extracts, Chinese herbal formulas, and many alternative therapies. There is no answer that will address healing for everyone. It is always key to remain open to technology when other options have not met our goals. One option that can be looked after trying nutritional therapy is Vagus Nerve Stimulation. This is a medical device that is surgically implanted. Any major medical center in the US and Europe can implant this device for a patient that qualifies.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) involves sending a message to the brain using periodic mild electrical stimulation from the vagus nerve in the neck by a surgically implanted small medical device. There is no brain surgery involved. This stimulation or pulse is sent by a medical device similar to a pacemaker. The vagus nerve is part of the autonomic nervous system and controls involuntary body functions. VNS may control epilepsy in cases where anti-epileptic drugs are ineffective or have intolerable side effects, or neurosurgery is not appropriate for some reason. VNS is effective in stopping seizures in some patients.
The implanted medical device is a flat, round battery, and measures about the size of a silver dollar. The VNS medical device was developed by Cyberonics, Inc. The doctor determines the strength and timing of the pulses administered by the device according to each patient’s individual needs. The level of electrical stimulation can be changed without additional surgery with a programming wand connected to a laptop computer.
The side effects of VNS during treatment may include hoarseness, coughing, throat pain, shortness of breath, a short and slight sensation of choking, altered voice sound, ear pain, tooth pain, and a tingling sensation in the neck. Skin irritation or infection could occur at the implantation site. VNS does not negatively impact the brain. This is major surgery and should not be considered lightly.
The premise of VNS is simple. It works on the vagus nerve, which is the longest cranial nerve in the human body passing from the neck to the thorax and the abdomen. This nerve plays a crucial role in monitoring key functions in the human body. In case there are variations such as increased breathing, the vagus nerve relays messages to the brain regarding how to respond. During VNS therapy, the care giver inserts a small gadget similar to a pacemaker below the neck which activates the nerve. Skepticism regarding the benefits of the therapy has remained among the medical fraternity, though its function as a placebo has been disapproved by psychiatrist Prof. Hamish McAllister-Williams from Newcastle University. Though he admits that not much is known about its efficacy in cases of severe depression that remain unresponsive to traditional treatments, he is sure that the impact of VNS is not akin to a placebo. Placebo is immediately activated and ends quickly, whereas VNS takes six months before its impact can be felt.
In a 2013 study on depressed patients who were resistant to treatment, it was observed that those who were provided adjunct VNS along with routine treatment for depression, the response rates were higher than when one only depended on treatment as usual (TAU). Another study by psychiatrist Scott Aaronson also revealed that VNS when used with TAU had better long-term outcomes than in case of only TAU.
Commenting on the study outcome, Aaronson said, “The tolerability of the device is terrific. The main side effect is hoarseness because the recurrent laryngeal nerve [that supplies the voice box] comes off the vagus nerve.” He suggested that the side effects could be controlled by temporarily turning off the device by holding a magnet over it. Apart from hoarseness in the voice, the therapy also causes frequent coughs, breathing difficulties and changes in heart rhythm.
It may also result in one’s depression or mania getting aggravated. Therefore, it is necessary to exercise caution before recommending bioelectric therapies for depression.
Alternative Treatments For Depression
There are many novel therapies for combatting depression. Their use with standard treatments is extremely effective for keeping the condition under check. Three such therapies that engage one’s thoughts constructively while keeping negative thoughts at bay are as below:
• Art therapy: One can engage in creative arts even without having a prior experience in dance or drama. These activities open the body and mind to a different experience and help one connect to him/her self. They help release all negativity and boost confidence thereby reducing symptoms of persistent sadness and low mood, characteristics of depression.
• Mindfulness therapy: Both mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) promote emotional well-being and awaken positivity. Such therapies focus on being in the present without worrying about the past or future. They encourage a person to get attuned to one’s senses and gain better understanding and control of their thoughts and behaviors.
• Eco therapy: As the name implies, eco therapy helps one connect with nature. Whether it is through walks in the nature or horticulture, it relies on the potential of the nature to heal, soothe and calm.
Depression
Depression has been called the “common cold” of mental health. An estimated 50 million Americans experience symptoms of depression, with consequences in all areas of life. Although a number of antidepressant medications are available, not all depression sufferers respond to these treatments. Because it acts directly on the brain itself, TMS therapy can target specific areas related to mood and energy while bypassing the side effects of typical antidepressant medications, such as weight gain, memory loss, low libido, insomnia, and dry mouth. TMS specifically targets the problem area, whereas general antidepressant medications come with more side effects.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy
During Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy, rhythmic, repetitive magnetic pulses are directed to the brain, usually in the prefrontal cortex. These pulses stimulate nerve cells in that area, regulating the firing of mood-regulating neurons that may be under-active causing depression.
TMS therapy benefits most people with chronic depression, not just those who fail to respond to antidepressants.
Outcomes of TMS therapy include improved mood, greater energy, and a more positive outlook. TMS is an excellent alternative to electro convulsive therapy (ECT), as it is non-invasive and does not cause memory loss.
TMS treatment sessions typically last less than an hour. TMS therapists recommend a course of five sessions per week for four to six weeks for maximum improvement.
In conclusion, nerve stimulation therapy is a promising treatment option for a wide range of conditions, from chronic pain to neurological disorders, from depression to other chronic conditions. More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of these therapies, but early results are encouraging. If you’re considering nerve stimulation therapy, talk to your doctor to see if it’s a good fit for you.