Joseph Beinlich, 16, from Farmingdale, New York, struggled with debilitating gastrointestinal symptoms from the age of 11. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2019, Joseph’s daily life was plagued by severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Despite being prescribed the anti-inflammatory drug mesalamine, the treatment offered limited relief. After two years of using the medication with minimal improvement, Joseph’s condition persisted, and his gastroenterologist recommended a colonoscopy. The results showed little progress in healing the damage to his colon.
In January 2023, a new opportunity emerged when Joseph and his family learned about a clinical trial at Northwell’s Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. The trial, focused on using vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), intrigued Joseph. The non-invasive procedure involves delivering electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve through the ear, aimed at reducing inflammation and improving gastrointestinal function. Joseph, now a high school junior, enrolled in the trial and began using the device twice a day for 10 minutes.
The vagus nerve, often referred to as the body’s “information superhighway,” plays a crucial role in regulating functions such as digestion, heart rate, and immune responses. Dr. Thomas Abell, a gastroenterology expert, explains that stimulating the vagus nerve can help modulate immune function and reduce inflammation, offering a potential treatment for conditions like IBD.
For Joseph, the results were transformative. His bowel movements decreased from seven to 10 per day to just one or two, and his abdominal pain diminished. “It’s been a huge boost to my health,” Joseph said. “I went from being a quiet, low-energy kid to having more confidence and energy.” He also gained the freedom to eat more varied foods without worrying about triggering symptoms.
Although the trial ended, Joseph continues to use the VNS device daily alongside his medication, and his quality of life has improved significantly. His mother, Danielle, notes that Joseph has not had to be reminded to use the device, as the relief it provides is evident.
Vagus nerve stimulation is still considered an experimental treatment for IBD, though it is FDA-approved for other conditions such as epilepsy and depression. Studies have shown promising results, particularly for those who do not respond well to traditional medications. Dr. Benjamin Sahn, who led the study Joseph participated in, believes VNS could help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in patients with IBD.
While more research is needed to fully understand how VNS works in treating IBD, experts suggest it could serve as an adjunctive therapy for patients who struggle with medication or who experience partial relief from conventional treatments. The potential benefits of VNS offer hope for many individuals suffering from IBD, a condition that affects millions worldwide.