What is neurophysiology?
Neurophysiology is the branch of physiology that studies the function of the nervous system. It examines how neurons, neural circuits, and brain regions generate behavior, perception, and consciousness.
Scope
- •Cellular — ion channels, action potentials, synaptic transmission
- •Circuit — how neurons connect and communicate
- •Systems — brainstem, cerebellum, cortex, autonomic nervous system
- •Integrative — how neural activity produces movement, emotion, thought
Why does neurophysiology matter?
Neurophysiology matters because it explains how the nervous system actually works in real time, which is the basis for diagnosing and treating many neurological conditions. Knowing how nerve cells generate and pass along electrical signals helps clinicians tell whether a problem lies in a nerve, the spinal cord, or the brain itself.
It also connects basic science to medicine. Much of what is known about how anesthetics, anti-seizure drugs, and many other medications act on the brain comes from neurophysiological research on ion channels and synapses.
How is neurophysiology measured?
Neurophysiology is measured mainly by recording the electrical activity of nerves, muscles, and the brain. Common clinical tests include electroencephalography (EEG), which records brain waves from the scalp; nerve conduction studies, which measure how fast signals travel along peripheral nerves; electromyography (EMG), which records muscle activity; and evoked potentials, which track the brain's response to sights, sounds, or touch.
In research, scientists also record from single cells with microelectrodes or patch clamps. Brain imaging methods such as functional MRI track blood flow instead of electrical signals, so they measure neural activity only indirectly.
In ONDA Life
ONDA practices are grounded in neurophysiology. Part 3 works with "the deepest, automated processes" — brainstem, reticular formation, sensorimotor cortex — from a neurophysiological perspective. Each protocol targets specific neural structures with measurable outcomes.