Clinical Corner: Accelerator Nerve

Accelerator Nerve

The term “accelerator nerve” is often used in the context of the autonomic nervous system to refer to nerves that are involved in increasing physiological functions, such as heart rate or other responses that prepare the body for action. The most common use of this term relates to the sympathetic nervous system’s role in accelerating heart rate.

In this context, the “accelerator nerve” typically refers to the cardioaccelerator nerve, also known as the cardiac accelerator nerve. This nerve is part of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, and it plays a role in increasing the heart rate and cardiac output as part of the body’s “fight or flight” response to stress or arousal.

When activated, the cardioaccelerator nerve releases the neurotransmitter norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline). Norepinephrine binds to beta-adrenergic receptors on the heart’s muscle cells, specifically in the atria and ventricles. This binding leads to an increase in the heart rate (positive chronotropic effect) and an increase in the force of contraction (positive inotropic effect), resulting in a more efficient and rapid pumping of blood to meet increased demands.

The accelerator nerve, or cardioaccelerator nerve, is part of the sympathetic division’s control over the cardiovascular system, working in contrast to the parasympathetic nervous system’s role in slowing the heart rate. This balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic inputs helps regulate heart rate and cardiac function according to the body’s needs.

Technique

Blends: Paracelsus 

1. Application 

Sustained Inhalation 3 to 15 breathing cycles 

Feet

Lower legs

Knees / Thighs

Pelvis

Low Back / Lower abdomen

Whole abdominal Cavity

Mid Back

Chest / Upper Back

Tops of shoulders

Arms / forearms / hands

Neck

Jaws / whole head

2. Application 

Sustained Inhalation 3 to 15 breathing cycles

Back Head

Forehead

Back Heart

Front Heart