Actively Recruiting
Impact of Heart Rate Variability Modulation on Stress and Recovery Among Physicians
Led by Michelle Thompson · Updated on 2026-02-18
50
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
M
Michelle Thompson
Lead Sponsor
T
The Board of Medicine
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are studying the impact of a wearable device called Apollo on reducing burnout among physicians. The device uses Tuned Vibroacoustic Stimulation (TVS) to gently vibrate the skin, which has been shown to improve heart rate variability and help the body recover from stress. This study aims to understand if using the Apollo device can lower stress levels and improve recovery for physicians working in hospital settings. Participants will use the Apollo device, which emits low-volume sound waves felt as a soothing touch on the wrist or ankle. They will wear the device daily for at least 30 minutes after waking up and 30 minutes before bedtime. The vibration intensity will be adjusted to just noticeable levels, which prior studies suggest are most effective and safe. Participants will control the device's comfort level and wear it throughout the study period. During the study, physicians will complete questionnaires assessing burnout, stress, mood, and sleep quality before and after using the device. Researchers will measure outcomes such as the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale over about eight weeks. Participants will be monitored for changes in stress levels and recovery, providing insight into the device's effect in real-world hospital environments.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Impact of Heart Rate Variability Modulation on Stress Management Among Physicians
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- UPMC attending physicians and residents
- Must have either iOS or Android smartphones
- Must be willing to participate in the study
You will not qualify if you...
- Unwillingness or inability to participate in the study
- Currently own an Apollo device
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person or remote)
Duration - Approximately 8 weeks
Participants use the Apollo wearable device daily to modulate heart rate variability by wearing it for at least 30 minutes after waking up and at least 30 minutes before bed. They complete questionnaires before and after the use of the device to assess stress, recovery, and related outcomes.
Weekly visits for assessments and device check-ins
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States, 15260
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
F
Franchesca Inay, BS
M
Mahi Mandala, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Number of Arms
1
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