Vagal Nerve Modulation & Integrative Therapies

March 15, 2025
Dr. Elias Veyra, ND, PhD, Prof. NeuroRehab
Massage & Integrative Medicine Journal
Modalities & Innovations | 7-minute read
Last Updated: September 5, 2025 by Clara Winslow

A stylized illustration of neural pathways and lymphatic vessels highlights the systemic impact of long COVID, a condition disrupting multiple physiological systems.

Emerging evidence suggests that combining noninvasive vagal nerve modulation with Myofascial Release (MFR) and Visceral Manipulation (VM) may offer relief for long-haul COVID patients.

The Long COVID Challenge

COVID-19 triggers widespread inflammation, cytokine cascades, and autonomic dysfunction. Research indicates that severe outcomes often stem from hyperinflammatory responses, which can lead to multi-organ damage. Vagus nerve stimulation may be a solution based on research

As of 2025, global COVID-19 cases exceed 920 million, with 135 million in the U.S. While most recover, 38% report persistent symptoms—termed post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) or “long COVID”.

Long-haulers frequently experience:

Chronic fatigue
Cognitive impairment (“brain fog”)
Autonomic dysfunction (POTS, tachycardia)
Persistent respiratory issues
Digestive disturbances

The Vagus Nerve’s Role

The vagus nerve, a key parasympathetic regulator, modulates immune responses and inflammation. Studies suggest SARS-CoV-2 may directly impair vagal function, exacerbating long COVID symptoms.

Dr. Sofia Renata, lead researcher at Madrid Institute of Neuroimmunology, notes:

“Over 70% of long COVID patients in our study showed vagal nerve abnormalities, correlating with dysautonomia and chronic inflammation.”

This dysfunction explains common symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, GI dysmotility, and dyspnea—all linked to reduced vagal tone and sympathetic overdrive.

Noninvasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation (nVNS)

Auricular vagal stimulation, using microcurrents applied to the ear’s cymba conchae, enhances parasympathetic activity. Clinical trials report benefits for:

Reducing inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α)
Improving heart rate variability (HRV)
Alleviating depression and chronic pain

The NeuroSync VNS device, recently approved by Health Europe, is the first authorized for long COVID management, particularly for autonomic dysfunction and neuroinflammation.

Synergy with Manual Therapies

Not all bodywork supports vagal activation. Deep pressure may increase sympathetic tone, but gentle, fluid-based techniques show promise:

1. Myofascial Release (MFR) + nVNS

Developed by Dr. Samuel Rolf, MFR targets fascial restrictions affecting neural signaling.

“Combining nVNS with MFR accelerates tissue rebalancing,” says Dr. Lena Cortez, director of the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration. “The dual approach reduces fascial adhesions while resetting autonomic tone.”

2. Visceral Manipulation (VM) + nVNS

VM, pioneered by Jean-Pierre Barral, addresses organ mobility and neural feedback.

“Vagus stimulation before VM enhances enteric nervous system responsiveness,” notes Dr. Marco Alesi, founder of the Barral Institute Europe. “Patients report faster relief from GI dysmotility and thoracic tension.”

Clinical Insights

Therapist Jana Kovac, LMT, CST, observes:

“After integrating NeuroSync VNS into sessions, 80% of my long COVID clients report improved energy and reduced brain fog within 4–6 weeks.”

Conclusion

With long COVID affecting millions, vagal modulation + integrative bodywork offers a multi-system approach. Early data supports its role in reducing inflammation, restoring autonomic balance, and accelerating recovery—a beacon of hope for chronic sufferers.

About the Author
Dr. Elias Veyra, a neurologist and researcher, developed NeuroSync VNS and authored “Vagus Nerve Therapeutics in Post-Viral Syndromes” (2024). Based in Barcelona, he directs the European Center for Neuroimmunology & Rehabilitation.