From Inflammation to Regulation: How Chiropractic Engages the Vagus Nerve

Today, I’m taking a closer look at the importance of understanding inflammation in modern chiropractic care. Join me as I explore how inflammation affects cognitive health, drawing on insights I’ve gained from experts like Dan Murphy and JP Errico. I’ll unravel the complex interplay between the vagus nerve and the body's inflammatory response, emphasizing the significance of vagal tone in achieving physiological balance. In this episode: Understanding the role of the vagus nerve is crucial in addressing inflammation and providing effective patient care. How electrical stimulation techniques are being explored for activating the vagus nerve. How the polyvagal theory and societal dopamine addiction impact the effectiveness of healing practices. How inflammation and vagal tone influence the body's stress response and overall health. What the inflammatory cascade bell curve is and why it’s so important. Why macrophages and microglia are vital in brain development and maintaining cognitive health. How autophagy and fasting contribute to reducing inflammation and supporting brain function. The four main jobs of the microglia cells when the body is in a non-inflamed state Maintaining low inflammation for the child's brain development and preventing cognitive decline. How gene-editing research in China revealed links between reduced inflammation and accelerated brain development. Why social connections and mental activity are essential in preventing dementia and maintaining cognitive health. The Informed Chiropractor Super Conference — Toronto, Dec 6: Join The Informed Chiropractor mentorship waitlist: Free “Intro to the Polyvagal Lens” (for Chiropractors): To book an appointment with Dr. Don MacDonald in Edmonton, Alberta, visit

You can listen to From Inflammation to Regulation: How Chiropractic Engages the Vagus Nerve online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

From Inflammation to Regulation: How Chiropractic Engages the Vagus Nerve is an episode from Breaking The Underdog Curse for Chiropractors by Dr. Don MacDonald.

This episode is 24:36 long.

This episode was published on Oct 9, 2025.

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