EVMM Sympathetics

Question 1

How can we utilize head position to regulate the sympathetics?

Answer 1

Bring head down, eyes below level of shoulder joint to stimulate a parasympathetic response

Question 2

Pre-ganglionic neurons (neurons coming out of the spinal cord) have 4 possible places to synapse. What are they?

Answer 2

1. From IML thru IVF to sympathetic trunk at the same level
2. From IML thru IVF to sympathetic trunk at the a few segments cranial
3. From IML thru IVF to sympathetic trunk at the a few segments caudal
4. From IML thru IVF to prevertebral ganglion to abdominal viscera

Question 3

Where are the three cervical sympathetic ganglia and why is that important to us?

Answer 3

1. Cervicothoracic ganglion – deep to head of first rib
2. Middle cervical ganglion – first rib
3. Cranial cervical ganglion - TMJ

Question 4

Where does the sympathetic trunk lie? (near what joints?)

Answer 4

Close to vertebral column, vertebral bodies, intervertebral discs and ribs

Question 5

How can increased sympathetic output affect restrictions?

Answer 5

Promotes subluxation complex by perpetuating inflammatory mediators and nociception

Question 6

How does nociception affect the sympathetics?

Answer 6

Nociceptive fibers enter spinal cord and activate sympathetic neurons in the IML. Causes alterations in blood flow, swelling, edema

Question 7

How does sympathetic stimulation affect the GI tract?

Answer 7

Shunts blood away from GI tract leading to GI dysfunction

Question 8

What are five signs of sympathetic over-stimulation?

Answer 8

Chronic pain
GI problems
Immune dysfunction
Adrenal fatigue
Sympathetic escape
Behavior problems