Earbuds that zap nerves could ease healthcare worker burnout
NCT ID NCT05132881
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether a device called transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (TaVNS) can reduce anxiety and distress in healthcare workers. Participants wear special earbuds that send gentle vibrations to stimulate the vagus nerve. Researchers will also use brain scans to see how the device affects brain activity. The goal is to find a non-drug way to help stressed healthcare professionals feel better.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Neuvana 2.0 Transcutaneous Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation (TaVNS) earbuds
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a drug-free way to ease anxiety and burnout in healthcare workers.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage study with no placebo control, so results may not be conclusive or apply to the general public.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ANXIETY are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Thomas Jefferson University, Marcus Institute of Integrative Health Centers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19107, United States