practice
Understanding the autonomic nervous system – boosting your health in a targeted way
In our practice, we use VNS analysis (vagal nerve stimulation) as a modern component of our medical training therapy (MTT). It supports you from the initial assessment through follow-up tests right through to the final assessment, and provides valuable information about your physical condition. VNS analysis gives us an insight into the state of your autonomic nervous system and enables us to closely monitor and document your progress during training.
What is VNS analysis – and what is it used for?
VNS analysis measures heart rate variability (HRV), i.e. your heart’s ability to adapt flexibly to stress. It provides valuable insights into the balance between the sympathetic nervous system (the ‘stress’ system) and the parasympathetic nervous system (the ‘relaxation’ system) – which is crucial for your physical and mental well-being.
- Sympathetic
nervous system: This becomes active when the body reacts to stress or exertion, such as during sport or in challenging situations. - Parasympathetic
nervous system: This system promotes relaxation and recovery, for example after exercise or whilst sleeping.
A healthy nervous system switches flexibly between tension and relaxation. Using VNS analysis, we assess how well your body is able to recover and respond to strain or stress. A healthy HRV indicates vitality, resilience and a balanced nervous system. Deviations may indicate chronic stress, overexertion or illness.
What does this mean for you?
- We can identify at an early stage whether your body is overloaded.
- We tailor your MTT specifically to your needs.
- We can accurately track your training progress over time.
How does a VNS analysis take place at our practice?
Initial assessment
: First, we assess the condition of your nervous system whilst you are at rest. This gives us an initial overview of your current stress levels and ability to recover.
Re-test
We carry out follow-up measurements at regular intervals to assess how well your body has adapted to the new physical demands of the medical training programme.
Final assessment
At the end of the MTT programme, we document your progress. The results show how your ability to recover and your general well-being have improved as a result of the training.
Why is VNS analysis important?
HRV – a reflection of your health
Your heart rate variability is like a mirror for your health. It shows how well your body switches between activity and recovery – a sign of vitality and resilience.
If this balance is disrupted, it can lead to:
- sleep problems
- persistent tiredness
- an increased risk of cardiovascular disease
- or slower recovery after physical exertion.
Using VNS analysis, we can identify such imbalances at an early stage and take targeted action to counteract them.
Questions and Answers on VNS Analysis
FAQs
How long does the VNS analysis take?
The measurement itself only takes a few minutes. Including the discussion of the results, we allow around 20 to 30 minutes.
Is the examination complicated?
No, the VNS analysis is completely painless and straightforward. You simply relax in a comfortable seated position whilst the device measures your heart rate.
How often is the analysis carried out?
VNS analysis is an integral part of our medical training therapy. We carry it out at the start, during and at the end of the therapy to document your progress.
Who can benefit from VNS analysis?
VNS analysis is suitable for people of all ages who:
- are suffering from stress or exhaustion,
- want to improve their heart health,
- are managing chronic conditions,
- or wish to boost their ability to recover.
Take the first step towards greater balance and better health
Book an appointment for a personalised VNS analysis at our private orthopaedic practice. We’ll help you to better understand your body and take targeted steps to improve your wellbeing.
We’d be happy to advise you in person – in Dorsten, Ahaus or Steinfurt.