Dolphin Neurostim
Dolphin Neurostim is a gentle, needle-free tool I use alongside myofascial massage. It's especially helpful for scar tissue and for muscles that are stuck in a tight, overworked, guarded state.
It's often described as "needle-less acupuncture": a small handheld device applies a very low-level microcurrent to specific points on the skin, without puncturing it. You may also hear it called MPS, short for microcurrent point stimulation.
The Dolphin Neurostim, also called MPS (microcurrent point stimulation).
How it works
The Dolphin uses microcurrent: an electrical current far gentler than a typical TENS unit. It's applied to acupuncture points, trigger points and along areas of restriction.
As with all my work, the aim is to help the nervous system feel safe enough to let go. When the body stops bracing, tight muscles can soften and stuck tissue can begin to move more freely. Many clients also find the treatment deeply calming.
Scar tissue release
Scars don't just sit on the surface. As they heal, they can bind to the fascia and tissue layers beneath them, pulling on the body well beyond the scar itself. Old scars can feel tight, numb, tender or "stuck," and can affect how nearby areas move.
Dolphin Neurostim works along the length of the scar to encourage the tissue to soften and glide. Clients often notice that a scar feels less tender, less numb and more mobile after treatment.
I work with scars from:
- C-sections and hysterectomies
- Mastectomies and breast surgery
- Abdominal surgery, such as gallbladder or appendix removal
- Joint surgery and sports injuries
Older scars can benefit too. Most people need several sessions, depending on the scar's age, depth and sensitivity.
Scar release along a C-section scar.
Releasing hypertoned muscles
A hypertoned muscle is one that stays tight even at rest. It's often holding on to protect an injury, compensate for another area or respond to ongoing stress. Stretching and pressure alone don't always convince it to let go.
The Dolphin's gentle stimulation can help these muscles relax. I often use it before or during myofascial massage, so the tissue is more receptive and the hands-on work can go deeper with less discomfort.
Vagus nerve stimulation
The vagus nerve is the main nerve of the body's rest-and-repair system. It runs from the brainstem to the heart, lungs and gut, and helps the body shift out of fight-or-flight and into calm.
With a small clip on the outer ear, the Dolphin gently stimulates a branch of the vagus nerve. Many people find it helps them:
- Feel calmer and less stressed
- Settle into a slower, steadier heart rhythm and a sense of heart coherence
- Breathe more deeply and sleep more easily
- Shift into the rest-and-repair state where healing happens
For me, a 15-minute vagus session feels like a long, deep meditation: a wave of peace, ease and tranquility that lingers well after the session.
Vagus nerve stimulation: a small clip rests on the outer ear.
What a session feels like
Most people feel very little: perhaps mild warmth, tingling or a light prickle where the device touches. Areas that are denser or more stuck may feel a little stronger. I adjust the intensity so it stays comfortable, and you can ask me to change it at any time.
What the research says
In a small 2018 study, 98 adults with chronic pain each received a one-hour massage. Half of them also received about 15 minutes of MPS just before their massage.
Massage alone: pain was about 43% lower two days later.
Massage plus 15 minutes of MPS: pain was about 78% lower two days later.
This was an early study without a placebo group, so more research is needed. But it's exactly why I offer MPS as a 15-minute add-on to your massage.
Add-ons and pricing
Add 15 minutes of Dolphin Neurostim to any massage, on top of your regular treatment time.
Vagus nerve calm
15 minutes · $45
Scar tissue release
15 minutes · $45
Scar tissue series: 5 sessions, 5th one free
5 × 15 minutes · $180 (save $45)
Two units work together along the scar.
Frequently asked questions
What is MPS?
MPS stands for microcurrent point stimulation. It's the type of treatment the Dolphin Neurostim gives: a very gentle microcurrent applied to specific points on the body.
Does it hurt?
Most people feel only mild warmth or tingling. I keep the intensity comfortable throughout.
How many sessions will I need for a scar?
Most scars respond within three to five sessions, depending on their age, depth and sensitivity.
Can old scars still change?
Yes. Scars that are many years old can still soften and become more mobile.
Is it the same as a TENS machine?
No. The Dolphin uses microcurrent, which is far gentler, and it's applied to specific points rather than over a broad area.
Can I have it on its own?
It works best added to a massage, but ask me about a stand-alone session.
Is it right for me?
Dolphin Neurostim is not suitable if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device, have epilepsy or a seizure disorder, or have cancer or a tumour in the area to be treated. Scars should be fully healed before treatment. Please tell me about any medical conditions, recent surgery or implants before your session. If you're unsure, check with your doctor first.
Book a session
If you have a scar that feels stuck or muscles that won't let go, I'd love to help. Book through the contact page on this website, and let me know you're interested in Dolphin Neurostim.