Now Recruiting Participants

Could Vagus Nerve Stimulation Help Your Symptoms?

DoctoriumGP is running a clinical pilot using the Nurosym device — a non-invasive ear-clip that stimulates the vagus nerve. We're looking for patients with fibromyalgia or menopause symptoms to take part.

Am I Eligible?
DoctoriumGP
CQC-Registered Clinic
Parasym
Device Partner
About the Pilot

What Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation?

The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in your body, connecting your brain to your heart, lungs, and gut. It plays a key role in regulating inflammation, pain, sleep, and stress.

The Nurosym device (made by Parasym) is a small, non-invasive ear-clip that gently stimulates the vagus nerve through the skin of your ear. You use it at home for 30–60 minutes per day — typically in the evening while relaxing or before bed.

Published research has shown promising results for fibromyalgia, chronic pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

🎧

Non-Invasive

A small ear-clip — no needles, no surgery, no medication. You use it comfortably at home.

⏱️

30–60 Minutes Daily

Use it while reading, watching TV, or before bed. Most patients find it relaxing.

📋

8-Week Programme

A structured pilot with clinical oversight from Dr Gemma Lewis MRCS MRCGP.

🔬

Evidence-Based

Backed by published research (Lommano et al, 2025; Dolcini et al, 2025) on fibromyalgia outcomes.

Who Can Take Part

Eligibility Criteria

We're recruiting two groups of patients. You only need to fit one group to be eligible.

🔹 Fibromyalgia Group

  • Confirmed fibromyalgia diagnosis
  • Aged 18–70 years
  • On stable medication for at least 4 weeks
  • Willing to complete a daily symptom diary
  • Able to use the device at home independently

🔹 Menopause Group

  • Perimenopausal or postmenopausal
  • Experiencing hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbance, fatigue, or brain fog
  • Not currently on HRT, or on stable HRT for at least 8 weeks
  • Willing to complete a daily symptom diary

You Cannot Take Part If You Have

  • An implanted electronic device (pacemaker, cochlear implant, etc.)
  • An active ear infection or skin lesion at the electrode site
  • Severe cardiac arrhythmias
  • Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
  • A severe psychiatric illness
  • An active malignancy (cancer)
Clinical oversight: All participants are assessed and monitored by Dr Gemma Lewis MRCS MRCGP, our Clinical Director. Your safety is our first priority — you can withdraw from the pilot at any time, for any reason.
What to Expect

The 8-Week Pilot Timeline

Here's what taking part looks like, week by week.

Week 0 — Getting Started

In-Clinic Assessment & Device Training

We'll review your medical history, complete baseline questionnaires, and train you on using the Nurosym device. This appointment takes approximately 45 minutes.

Week 1 — First Check-In

Phone or Video Call (10–15 mins)

We'll check you're comfortable with the device, answer questions, and ensure everything is working well.

Week 2 — Compliance Check

Phone or Video Call (10 mins)

A brief check to see how you're getting on and whether you're using the device regularly.

Week 4 — Mid-Point Review

In-Clinic or Video Appointment

Repeat questionnaires to track progress. Dr Lewis will review your results and adjust the programme if needed.

Week 6 — Progress Check

Phone or Video Call (10 mins)

Nearly there — we'll check in on how things are going.

Week 8 — Final Assessment

In-Clinic Appointment

Final questionnaires, clinical assessment, and feedback. We'll discuss your results and next steps.

Your Daily Commitment

What You'll Do Each Day

1️⃣

Use the Device

Attach the ear-clip and relax for 30–60 minutes. Most people do this in the evening or before bed.

2️⃣

Complete Your Diary

A quick daily log: did you use the device, how long for, and rate your pain, fatigue, and sleep (0–10).

3️⃣

Report Anything Unusual

If you experience any discomfort or side effects, note it in the diary and contact us.

Time commitment: Around 35–65 minutes per day for the device session plus diary, plus 4 appointments over 8 weeks (2 in-clinic, 2 phone/video calls of 10–15 minutes each). Most participants find the device use fits easily into their evening routine.
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the device painful? ▼
No. The device produces a gentle tingling sensation in the ear. You adjust the intensity yourself to a comfortable level — it should never be painful. Most people describe it as relaxing.
Do I have to pay for anything? ▼
The Nurosym devices are being provided by Parasym for the duration of the pilot. There is no charge for participating in the pilot programme. Details of any costs will be confirmed before you agree to take part.
Can I continue my current medication? ▼
Yes. We ask that you are on a stable medication regimen (no changes in the past 4 weeks). You should not stop or change any medication without speaking to your doctor. The Nurosym device is used alongside your existing treatment, not instead of it.
Can I withdraw at any time? ▼
Absolutely. Participation is entirely voluntary. You can withdraw at any stage without giving a reason, and it will not affect any other care you receive from DoctoriumGP.
What happens to my data? ▼
All personal data is kept strictly confidential and handled in accordance with GDPR. Any information shared with Parasym for research purposes will be fully anonymised — your name and personal details are never shared. You will be asked to sign a consent form before starting.
Who is overseeing the pilot? ▼
The pilot is clinically supervised by Dr Gemma Lewis MRCS MRCGP, Clinical Director at DoctoriumGP — a CQC-registered menopause and women's health clinic in Derby. Parasym provides the devices and scientific guidance.
Where is the clinic? ▼
DoctoriumGP is at 4 Woburn House, Vernon Gate, Derby, DE1 1UL. In-clinic appointments take place here. Some follow-up appointments can be done via phone or video call.

Interested in Taking Part?

If you think you might be a good fit, we'd love to hear from you. There's no obligation — get in touch and we'll have an informal chat about whether the pilot is right for you.

Express Your Interest Call Us