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Behavioral and neurological parameters of the nerve compression block
J A Scott Kelso1, G E Stelmach, W M Wanamaker
1a Department of Physical Education , University of Wisconsin.
Journal of Motor Behavior
|August 20, 2013
Summary
Nerve-compression blocks, used to study movement control, were found to cause motor impairment. This motor deficit confounds research relying on nerve blocks to eliminate kinesthetic information.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control Research
Background:
- Nerve-compression blocks are utilized to investigate motor control by eliminating sensory feedback.
- The technique assumes sensory blockade precedes motor function impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of nerve-compression blocks in isolating motor function.
- To determine the onset and extent of motor impairment during nerve blockade.
Main Methods:
- Motor nerve conduction velocity and muscle action potential amplitude were measured in the ulnar and median nerves.
- Participants performed tapping trials under conditions of eliminated vision and audition.
- Nerve conduction parameters were assessed at intervals during nerve block application.
Main Results:
- Progressive reductions in motor nerve conduction velocity and muscle action potential amplitude were observed.
- Significant decrements in nerve conduction parameters occurred as early as 15 minutes post-blockade.
- Motor impairment was identified as a confounding factor in the nerve block technique.
Conclusions:
- Nerve-compression blocks induce motor impairment, affecting their utility in studying movement control.
- The assumption of isolated sensory blockade is challenged by the early onset of motor deficits.
- Researchers should consider motor impairment when interpreting results from nerve block studies.
