Introduction to Polyvagal Theory (PVT)

The convergence of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), modern neuroscience, and Polyvagal Theory presents a compelling framework for addressing complex neurological conditions such as spasticity, stroke, and PTSD. This integration enables a deeper understanding of the fight-or-flight response—a fundamental aspect of human physiology that has significant implications for health and disease management. By exploring the physiological underpinnings of this response through Polyvagal Theory and correlating them with TCM principles, we can develop more effective therapeutic strategies that address both the symptoms and the underlying causes of these conditions.

This approach not only bridges the gap between Eastern and Western medical traditions but also enriches our clinical toolkit, allowing for more personalized and effective interventions. The goal of this discussion is to elucidate the pathomechanisms involved in fight-or-flight responses and to explore how TCM can be strategically applied to modulate these responses, thereby enhancing patient outcomes in the treatment of spasticity, stroke, and PTSD.

The Bibliography

In lieu of a references page for each blog post, I have a included the references for the entire subject, to be expanded as content increases. For ease, I reference the last name of the author in the blog paragraph for more important works.

The Role of Primitive Reflexes

The development of the ANS, including proper vagal tone and a healthy fight/flight/freeze response, is dependent on primitive reflexes that present in the earliest life stages. Primitive reflexes are innate, instinctual, and involuntary movements that initially offer protective movements to sensory stimuli (Pryor). More simply, they are life-saving movements to protect us from harmful sensations. The withdrawal from a hot object wasn't learned—it is a reflex.

The Intersection of TCM with Polyvagal Theory

 In both adults and children, retained reflexes mobilize qi and blood into the large skeletal motor muscles to prepare for flight. These large skeletal muscles correspond to the Yang channels in the body. Strong patterns of spasticity are observed directly in the fascia and often do not resolve with appropriate treatment. Additionally, adult survivors of childhood trauma exhibit long-term issues of malabsorption, middle jiao deficiencies, and autoimmunity that appear to be due to long-term inhibition of the enteric nervous system and involution of the thymus.