Synchronous Changes in Microcirculation Parameters of the Upper Limbs in Asymmetric Physical Loads

Abstract

This is the first study on synchronous changes in microcirculation in the symmetrical organs of humans during asymmetric physical loads of the upper limbs. The study was conducted in healthy volunteers by the method of laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). LDF signal transducers were fixed symmetrically on the lower parts of the right and left shoulders (3 cm above the elbow bend). Physical loads included the left or right arm swings in standing position for 1 min. Measurements were made in three states: (1) initial state, (2) immediately after physical activity, and (3) 5 min after loads. The changes in the mean perfusion value and the components of amplitude-frequency spectrum of blood flow fluctuations (myogenic, neurogenic, respiratory, and cardiac) were evaluated in both sides of the body. We observed the asymmetry of changes in microcirculation parameters after physical loads. It is shown that both left and right swings change the microcirculation parameters of both the left and right sides, and the changes on the left are more pronounced than on the right. A nonlinear relationship was observed between the changes in microcirculation parameters of symmetrical areas of paired organs and heart rate. Our data illustrate the specific regulation patterns of microcirculation blood flow in paired organs, which is associated with functional asymmetry. The physiological mechanisms of this asymmetry require further experimental and clinical research.