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How are tonic and phasic cardiovascular changes related to central motor command?
J R Jennings1, M W van der Molen, K Brock
1University of Pittsburgh, PA.
Biological Psychology
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Central motor command influences cardiovascular responses like heart rate and vascular activity. However, this influence appears independent of anticipatory cardiac changes, suggesting distinct neural pathways.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Autonomic Neuroscience
Background:
- Central motor command plays a role in cardiovascular regulation during exercise.
- The interaction between central command and anticipatory cardiovascular adjustments is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of enhanced or reduced central motor command on heart rate, respiration, and peripheral vascular activity.
- To determine if central command modulates phasic cardiovascular changes, such as anticipatory cardiac deceleration.
Main Methods:
- Central command was manipulated using tendon vibration while maintaining constant muscle tension.
- Two experiments involved isometric contractions (flexor or extensor) with or without tendon vibration in college-aged males.
Main Results:
- Tendon vibration enhanced heart rate and vascular responses during extensor contractions.
- Vibration's effect on cardiovascular changes was more pronounced with extensor than flexor contractions.
- Tendon vibration did not alter phasic cardiovascular changes related to anticipation.
Conclusions:
- Force and central commands for force significantly impact cardiovascular changes.
- Cardiovascular adjustments driven by central motor command are distinct from those triggered by anticipation of stimuli.