Effects of Vibroacoustic Stimulation on Psychological, Physiological, and Cognitive Stress

Sensors (Basel). 2024 Sep 12;24(18):5924. doi: 10.3390/s24185924.

Abstract

Global stress is widespread in today's post-pandemic world of political and economic uncertainty. Vibroacoustic technology is a vibrotactile intervention with multiple uses, but its impact on stress lacks interpretation. This research assessed if the vibroacoustic technology of a Vibroacoustic Sound Massage (VSM) can reduce psychological, physiological, and cognitive stress. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and electrocardiogram (ECG) and electroencephalogram (EEG) biosignals were used to quantify results. Participants were divided into Low-Stress and High-Stress groups. The ECG results show VSM increased parasympathetic activity for all participants, with the Low-Stress group being more affected. The EEG results indicate increased concentration, reduced arousal, and increased relaxation, with participant well-being non-significantly affected, though variability in this metric was homogenised after VSM. Together, these results validate VSM as an effective support tool for stress management; however, further research is required.

Keywords: electrocardiogram; electroencephalography; heart rate variability; stress; vibroacoustic sound massage; vibroacoustic technology.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cognition / physiology
  • Electrocardiography / methods
  • Electroencephalography* / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Massage / methods
  • Stress, Psychological* / physiopathology
  • Vibration*
  • Young Adult