I took this course because I see in practice that many people are struggling with the effects of stress and anxiety. I have also recently become interested in the ‘Polyvagal Theory’ and I wanted to learn some practical techniques to affect vagal nerve function from the bottom up (i.e. through bodywork rather than talking/psychological approaches).

The practical approach to assessing and correcting problems with the vagus nerve is very clear and well-explained. Having a clear idea of how to assess the three main areas where the vagus nerve can be affected, as well as the supporting CMRT and cranial procedures are very helpful in practice. The succinct presentation and drip-feeding of the content is an effective way to learn. The impact of the course has mostly been in my professional life giving me a clearer idea of how to effectively reduce irritation to the vagus nerve.

I saw a lady in practice this week that had had a very difficult 1st trimester of pregnancy requiring hospital treatment several times for hyperemesis. While this had settled she was still experiencing low energy, some nausea and ‘not feeling herself’. Having applied the techniques, her demeanour had completely changed, even her skin colour had improved and she commented “That is so much better, I feel like me again”. Thank you for sharing this valuable information.

I’ve decided to take this course because I wanted to deepen my knowledge about the vagus nerve function and imbalances and how to address it when it gets compressed/tractioned. The program is very well structured, with a good learning pace. Knowing the widespread effect that vagus nerve dysfunction can have in the body and learning how to correct it provides us with a more holistic approach. Techniques learned in this program are well explained, in a practical way.

Since I’ve taken this program I was able to better evaluate both pediatric and adult patients in regards to symptomatology related to the autonomic nervous system. This has had a profound impact in how patients recover overall health and wellbeing. I used these techniques with an adult patient with several digestive issues plus symptomatology in the Cervical and Upper Thoracic Region. Upon evaluation, I found a left occipital compression, with a right occipital sideslip. After correcting the occiput, I’ve checked the atlas, 1st rib, diaphragm and psoas, correcting what was involved using the techniques taught in the program. I’ve finished the session with the temporal bone evaluation and correction. The patient was amazed with the change he felt on those digestive issues (dramatically improved reflux).

Just want to appreciate once more all the work that you’ve put into making these programs available to us…. Thank you!!

I took this course to gain a deeper understanding of how chiropractic adjustments can enhance and support the vagus nerve specifically. I feel that in the last few years I have seen a lot of unqualified health practitioners/life coaches, etc. throwing the term ‘vagal tone’ and downplaying its role by listing vague exercises that people can do to enhance it without any assessment or understanding of it. Sometimes I have parents that come in and say they’ve googled things to help their child develop vagal tone etc. As a chiropractor that stresses the importance of a well-regulated nervous system and having the knowledge and tools to do so, it made sense for me to do a course specifically dedicated to the vagus nerve to benefit my clients.

This course has given me more clarity and depth to how chiropractic adjustments specifically address where the vagus nerve may be irritated. In particular, I’ve found it more helpful with explaining to Mums when they bring in their bubs, how a small adjustment at the correct place can change a whole host of symptoms that bub is presenting with. You don’t need to correct everything head to toe, just spend more time trying to locate the area where the irritation is. I’m even spending less time in the session as I’m looking for certain findings. The course has given me more specificity when assessing clients and adjusting with a plan and how to recheck after the adjustment instead of relying on Mums reporting the issue is improving.

I’m applying the knowledge from this course more with my paediatric clients. From applying my SOT knowledge, it was common for me to perform dural releases, clear out the occiput (normally traction or posterior), sacrum and HH and ICV releases. It was the first time I had heard of to also check the 1st rib/clavicle and anterior Atlas. It makes sense when you follow the vagus nerves path along the osseous structures! This assessment is part of my adjusting protocols now and I have found that with every paediatric client that the results and alleviation of symptoms are much faster. i.e. I’m seeing faster results in the visit and by the 2nd 3rd visit already. I was getting good results before but now I know and am seeing even better and faster results. The assessment and corrections for the vagus nerve makes sense, is clinically relevant and parents get it.
Thanks for creating a great and well thought out course for chiropractors to learn and benefit from. It’s very versatile and can easily be incorporated into care regardless of technique preference.