Repolarization

Mechanism and function

In many axons, sodium-channel inactivation and potassium-channel opening contribute. Cellular transport mechanisms maintain the underlying ionic gradients.

Assessment and clinical implications

This process differs from nerve recovery after injury. Using the word repolarization in a treatment explanation does not demonstrate a clinical effect on radiculopathy.

Points to consider

Neural transmission depends on complementary electrical and chemical properties. A cellular mechanism cannot be measured directly through posture examination. Electrophysiological investigations answer specific questions about nerve or muscle dysfunction.

Role of TAGMED care

At TAGMED, assessment aims to understand symptoms, history and functional limitations. Manual care and osteopathy, motorized spinal decompression, laser and shockwave have different indications. The term described in this entry is not enough to select any of these modalities. Their relevance, limitations and possible contraindications should be discussed in relation to diagnosis and individual goals.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Depolarization — Shift in membrane potential toward a less negative value that may bring an excitable cell closer to action-potential threshold.
• Saltatory conduction — Mode of action-potential propagation in a myelinated axon, with signal regeneration at the nodes of Ranvier.
• Action potential — Brief regenerative change in membrane potential that allows an excitable cell to transmit an electrical signal along its membrane.

Medical references

1. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — The Action Potential.
2. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — Communication Between Neurons.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.