Ear zap might sharpen reflexes, tiny study hopes
NCT ID NCT07528742
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a mild electrical pulse on the ear (over the vagus nerve) can improve reaction time in healthy adults. Thirty participants will receive a 5-minute stimulation using a TENS unit, and their reaction time will be measured before and after. It is a small, early-stage study exploring a possible link between nerve stimulation and mental quickness.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation via TENS unit
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to boost reaction time for healthy people.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early study in healthy volunteers, so results may not apply to others. The effect, if any, is likely small and temporary.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Youngstown State University
RECRUITINGYoungstown, Ohio, 44555, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact
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