The Vagus Nerve: Considerations for Physical Therapists

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CEU Course Description 

The vagus nerve, or cranial nerve ten, is the largest and most complex nerve in terms of its pathway and function in the human body. It begins at the brain and courses down the spinal cord, branching bilaterally to all organs in the thorax, abdomen and pelvis to regulate autonomic activity. The autonomic nervous system involves the sympathetic “fight or flight” and parasympathetic “rest and digest” function as well as the enteric nervous system which controls the gastrointestinal tract. This course will discuss the anatomy and physiology of the vagus nerve, clinical observations of vagus nerve dysfunction, vagus nerve stimulation and strategies for Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants to recognize, refer and intervene on patients with disorders that affect vagus nerve regulation. 

CEU Course Objectives

1. Summarize neurophysiology of the vagus nerve, including parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system
2. Identify clinical signs and symptoms of vagus nerve impairment 
3. Discuss clinical interventions used to improve imbalance caused by vagus nerve dysfunction

CEU Course Syllabus

Introduction--> Section 1: Understanding the Vagus Nerve	0.25 Contact Hours
Section 2: Clinical Presentation --> Section 3: Intervention	0.50 Contact Hours
Section 4: Future Considerations  --> References	0.25 Contact Hours

Total = 1 Contact Hour

Instructional level: Basic

Course Date: 2022-02-16

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