03/14/2026
I received my AARP Bulletin magazine today and there was a very informative article on Vagal nerve stimulation. In the article “You’ve Got Some Nerve!” By Jeanne Dorin McDowell the author writes that the Vagus Nerve is a communication highway between the brain and body, and this two way signaling system is known as Inflammatory Reflex. Keeping the vagus nerve in a stimulated state, improved pain levels; along with reducing long term affects of an under stimulated nerve. By monitoring the vagal tone of this nerve, doctors can determine the affects it can have on the body’s parasympathetic system. Chronic stress, poor regulation and high inflammation can result in long term damage. Patients with autoimmune, inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s, fibromyalgia and chronic migraines have benefited from Vagal nerve stimulation.
More natural ways to stimulate the vagus nerve are supported in this article. Gentle vagus nerve restoration massage, slow diaphragmatic breathing and even humming are suggested as daily and regulatory ways to keep your vagus nerve healthy.
Since this nerve plays a vital role in the inflammatory response in your body, keeping it functioning optimally has lifelong benefits. Enjoy reading the article on a study of a patient with RA and the benefits of an implanted vagal stimulator.
McDowell, Jeanne Dorin. “You’ve Got Some Nerve! Stimulating the vagus nerve may be the answer for chronic pain, heart disease, depression and more.” AARP Bulletin, March/April 2026
