Influence of location and frequency variations of binaural electrostimulation on heart rate variability

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine an appropriate frequency and location of binaural electrostimulation to ensure the treatment effect. Twenty-three healthy participants were recruited to receive 15 min of electrostimulation at two different frequencies (i.e., 1 vs. 25 Hz), and the same procedure was performed at two locations (tragus vs. earlobe). This study observed fluctuations in heart rate variability to reflect the autonomic activity. Repeated measures ANOVA was carried out to determine the differences. Results showed that the activities of parasympathetic and total power increased after stimulation in both tragus and earlobe trials. However, the effect of 25 Hz stimulation to increase total power was significantly higher than that of 1 Hz. No significant difference in stimulating the earlobes or tragus was observed. Therefore, binaural electrostimulation might be cardioprotective and useful as a complement to medical treatment.