[Elektrophysiological methods as diagnostic tools in pain therapy]

Schmerz. 2008 Aug;22(4):471-9; quiz 80-1. doi: 10.1007/s00482-008-0666-4.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Elektrophysiological methods provide objective data about the function of the somatosensory system. Broadly established methods like neurography, myography, sensory evoked potentials and electrically evoked reflexes are in contrast to less well known techniques as laser-evoked potentials and microneurography. It is important to keep in mind that neurography and sensory evoked potentials comprise the function of myelinated nerve fibers with big axonal diameters. Unlike, laser-evoked potentials and microneurography describe the functionality of nonmyelinated, small diameter nerve fibers, which transmit pain and temperatures as sensory signals. Investigation of the sympathetic sudomotoric system can provide evidence for lesions within sympathetic nerves.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Axons / physiology
  • Electromyography / methods
  • Electrophysiology / methods*
  • Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory / physiology
  • Humans
  • Lasers
  • Motor Neurons / physiology
  • Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / physiology
  • Neuralgia / physiopathology
  • Neuralgia / therapy
  • Neurologic Examination / methods*
  • Nociceptors / physiopathology
  • Pain / physiopathology*
  • Pain Management*
  • Pain Measurement / methods*
  • Reaction Time / physiology
  • Reflex / physiology
  • Spinal Cord / physiopathology