Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
12:19
Utilizing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Study the Human Neuromuscular System
Published on: January 20, 2012
Sympathetic responses to repetitive trans-spinal magnetic stimulation
Roger J Paxton1, Matthew P Malcolm, Sean A Newsom
1Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 205E Moby B-Complex, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1582, USA.
Summary
Repetitive trans-spinal magnetic stimulation (rTSMS) did not alter sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity in healthy adults. Further research is needed to determine if rTSMS can modulate SNS function for therapeutic purposes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Physiology
Background:
- Electromagnetic fields have shown variable success in treating ailments.
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can temporarily alter peripheral sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of repetitive trans-spinal magnetic stimulation (rTSMS) for modulating SNS activity in adult humans.
- To assess both acute and prolonged effects of rTSMS on SNS function.
Main Methods:
- 23 healthy participants were randomized to receive either rTSMS or sham stimulation.
- rTSMS involved a figure-eight coil placed on the cervical vertebrae at 10 Hz and 100% intensity.
- SNS activity was measured using microneurography, heart rate variability, blood pressure, and plasma catecholamine/glucose levels.
Main Results:
- rTSMS did not significantly affect skeletal muscle SNS activity compared to sham stimulation.
- No significant changes were observed in heart rate variability, blood pressure, or plasma levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine, insulin, and glucose.
- These findings indicate a lack of SNS modulation by rTSMS in the tested parameters.
Conclusions:
- Current data suggest that rTSMS does not influence SNS activity in adult humans.
- While rTSMS is a novel application of TMS, modifications may be necessary for clinical use in peripheral SNS studies.
