What is neurophysiology?

Neurophysiology is a medical specialty that focuses on the relationship between the brain and the peripheral nervous system. As its name implies, neurophysiology is in many ways a combination of neurology, which is the study of the human brain and its functions, and physiology, which is the study of the sum of the parts of the body and how they interrelate. Neurophysiologists examine the many ways that brain activities impact nervous system activities. Much of the fieldwork is research, with clinicians seeking to understand the origins and best treatments for a variety of neurological disorders.

The human nervous system has two parts: the central nervous system, which is the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, which is the network of nerves that extends throughout the body. Nerves are responsible for sensitivity and sensation, but also for muscle health and control. Neurophysiology examines the relationship between the two systems in causing degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease, as well as neurological disorders such as epilepsy.

All parts of the body are ultimately controlled by the brain, but the brain, as part of the nervous system, plays a unique role in managing the nerves. Neurophysiology tries to connect the brain's role as controller of the nervous system with its role as a member of the nervous system to better understand how and why nervous system problems occur. Doctors in the field will use tools and tests such as electroencephalography and electromyography to study the ways that the affected nerves communicate with the brain. They use this data to assess the overall functioning of the nervous system as a whole and identify the roots of faults and problems.

Neurophysiologists do not generally treat conditions directly. Most neurophysiologists are clinical neurophysiologists, meaning they work primarily with diagnostics. His role is exploratory and investigative. They work alongside neurologists, neurobiologists, and general practitioners to identify and manage a patient's neurological conditions.

Clinical neurophysiologists work as specialists and typically only take patients on referral from other professionals. Most of the time, they pass on their findings to professionals who administer the necessary treatments. Neurophysiologists may see patients again to assess how treatments are working, but they rarely act as primary caregivers.

Success in the practice of neurophysiology requires a comprehensive understanding of not only the cognitive science of the brain and nervous system, but also many other related medical disciplines. Neurophysiologists' research spans many specialties and demands an understanding of how all the elements of the body come together and interact. Neurophysiology is generally considered to be an exclusive and elite medical specialty.

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