Impact of Heart Rate Variability Modulation on Stress Management Among Physicians

Impact of Heart Rate Variability Modulation on Stress and Recovery Among Physicians

The purpose of this research is to examine a wearable device called Apollo that emits gentle vibrations found to benefit mood, energy, and focus. We want to understand how it affects burnout in physicians.

This study will be conducted by using a Tuned Vibroacoustic Stimulation (TVS) device(the commercially available TVS device known as the Apollo wearable), that has been shown in clinical studies at University of Pittsburgh to improve heart rate variability and recovery under stress. The Apollo wearable generates low volume sound waves that feel like a soothing touch to the skin. This study will assess whether slight modulation of heart rate variability (HRV) will result in a reduction in stress, improved recovery, and recovery in and around the hospital. Physicians will wear the Apollo device for heart rate variability modulation and complete questionnaires before and after use of the Apollo device for comparison of outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• UPMC attending physicians and residents. The participants must have either IOS or Android phones.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unwillingness or inability to participate in the study
• Currently own an Apollo device