Autonomic Nervous System
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a major component of the peripheral nervous system that is responsible for controlling and regulating a wide range of bodily functions including heart rate, digestion, respiration, sexual arousal, and perspiration. It plays a critical role in maintaining the body’s homeostasis, or internal balance, by responding to internal or external changes. It is divided into two subsystems, the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, which work together to react to various stimuli. The sympathetic system is responsible for stimulating the body in times of danger, while the parasympathetic system helps to relax and restore the body’s energy. An abnormal autonomic nervous system can result in a variety of medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and depression. Understanding and treating the ANS is important to maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
← Journal of Spine and Neuroscience