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Clinical Autonomic Research

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01-02-2012 | Review Article

Squatting test: a dynamic postural manoeuvre to study baroreflex sensitivity

Authors: André J. Scheen, Jean-Christophe Philips

Published in: Clinical Autonomic Research | Issue 1/2012

Abstract

Introduction

Squatting is an active posture test that can be used to assess baroreflex sensitivity. Indeed, the shift from squatting to standing imposes a major orthostatic stress leading to rapid and large changes in arterial blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) allowing precise baroreflex assessment.

Material and methods

BP and HR can be continuously and non-invasively monitored with a Finapres device.

Results

The standing to squatting transition is accompanied by rises in BP, pulse pressure and cardiac output, mainly due to increased venous return, and by a secondary reduction in HR. Conversely, the squatting to standing transition is associated with an immediate drop in BP and both reflex tachycardia and vasoconstriction. This mirror changes in BP and HR, mimicking those observed with the classical pharmacological approach using vasopressor/vasodilating agents, allows the calculation of the so-called baroreflex gain.

Discussion

The present review describes the haemodynamic changes occurring in normal subjects during the shifts from standing to squatting and from squatting to standing and discusses the underlying cardiovascular and autonomic mechanisms.

Conclusion

This careful analysis in healthy individuals should help in the understanding of disturbances that may be observed in patients with autonomic dysfunction, such as in diabetic patients with cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy.

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Title: Squatting test: a dynamic postural manoeuvre to study baroreflex sensitivity
Authors: André J. Scheen
Jean-Christophe Philips
Publication date: 01-02-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Clinical Autonomic Research / Issue 1/2012
Print ISSN: 0959-9851
Electronic ISSN: 1619-1560
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10286-011-0140-8

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Squatting test: a dynamic postural manoeuvre to study baroreflex sensitivity

Abstract

Introduction

Material and methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Material and methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion

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