Body of Research

The only place on the body where the vagus nerve (VN) sends its only peripheral branch is on the outer ear. The auricle is where this VN branch surfaces to form a cutaneous receptive field in the pinna of the ear — an area responsive to peripheral nerve stimulation. Thus, the auricle allows for easy access for auricular (and transcutaneous auricular) vagus nerve stimulation (aVNS/taVNS), that relays the stimuli to the brainstem and higher brain regions via extensive projections to second and...

In a randomized clinical trial with an initial sample of 180 professionals, Kurebayashi and her colleagues studied the effectiveness of auricular methods (e.g. an auricular protocol for pain & anxiety) as a efficient, drug-free approach for improving the quality of life of the nursing staff of a hospital.  Results showed a 17% reduction in anxiety, a 36% reduction in pain, and a 13% increase in the mental aspect of quality of life. Details on descriptive statistics, analysis of variance...

The NADA protocol is a nonverbal, evidence-based best practice intervention with immediate calming effects on patients, regardless of the specific substance used, or whether a coexisting psychiatric disorder has been diagnosed. Initial participation with this 5-point protocol improves involvement in the treatment process.  Read more for context and continuing education options for nursing and mental health professionals   Citation: Carter K, Olshan-Perlmutter M. NADA Protocol: Integrative ...