Comparison between CV4 and EV4 - Osteopathic Research

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2.4 Autonomic nervous system (ANS)
2.4.1 General:
The parameters measured in this study (skin-conductance, skin-temperature,
pulse-rate, and respiratory frequency) are body functions that are controlled,
regulated and fine-tuned through the autonomic nervous system. The ANS is to
a large extent independent from our will; however, numerous combinations and
interrelationships between the somatic and the autonomic nervous system exist.
The central ANS consists of parts of the cortex, thalamus, hypothalamus, limbic
system and reticular formation.
In the inter brain, the third ventricle divides the thalamus into two halves; the
hypothalamus lies at the base of the third ventricle. The thalamus acts as
switchboard to the cortex. The thalamus is also known as the “door to
consciousness” as all information from the environment and the senses flow
through its core. These afferent senses (with the exception of odour) meet in the
thalamus, are judged, weighted, filtered, associated with a feeling and finally
further directed; but only a fraction of this process reaches the consciousness.
The thalamus is an important integration and co-ordination organ.
The hypothalamus is with its neural, neuro-secretal and hormonal function the
single most important regulation centre of all the autonomic functions that
guarantee the homeostasis necessary for life. It coordinates the endocrine and
the ANS.
The central ANS controls the peripheral ANS, consisting of the sympathetic and
parasympathetic. The sympathetic nerve increases performance levels under
stress and emergency situations, as it activates organ functions that are necessary
for intellectual and physical work. The parasympathetic serves the metabolism,
regeneration, and the gathering of physical reserves. Its activity is increased in
rest and sleep; however, a functional synergy exists between both parts of the
ANS which affects the whole organism.
Margit Grill / 2006