This special edition episode features the latest installment of Healio Community's book club. Physician author Kevin J. Tracey, MD, discussed his book, The Great Nerve: The New Science of the Vagus Nerve and How to Harness Its Healing Reflexes in which he explores the potential of stimulating the vagus nerve to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases.

·        Intro by Adam J. Brown, MD 0:14

·        A warm welcome from Leonard H. Calabrese, DO 0:25

·        Introducing Kevin J. Tracey, MD 0:58

·        The connection between the brain and the immune system 3:25

·        Where was the switch that combined neural networks and immune response? 5:55

·        A brief summary of the main parts of The Great Nerve: The New Science of the Vagus Nerve and How to Harness Its Healing Reflexes 9:18

·        The science of vagal nerve stimulation 11:03

·        What are the pros and cons of different strategies of stimulating the vagus nerve? 16:28

·        Different inflammatory responses to implant devices 17:35

·        Data on vagus nerve stimulation 21:38

·        Adopting new technology 25:40

·        Enhancing immune health through brain health 28:35

·        Wellness behaviors 32:55

·        A motivated patient 36:16

·        Thank you, Dr. Tracey 38:03

·        Thanks for listening 39:26

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We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments/questions to Dr. Brown at rheuminationspodcast@healio.com. Follow us on Twitter @HRheuminations @AdamJBrownMD @HealioRheum.