What is an ANS Analysis?

The ANS Analysis measures the autonomic nervous system via the heart rate variability (HRV).

ANS Analysis is a very simple and fast method to show how well our body's primary control center, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is working and performing its regulatory duties. With its two main divisions, the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous system (or vagus), the ANS represents a superordinate control center in the body. It controls and regulates subordinate processes and all vital functions, including blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, immune system, endocrine system,  digestive system, energy supply, etc.

Logic behind the ANS Analysis

When a superordinate system controls and regulates subordinate systems, the functional state of the superordinate system is the most important diagnostic parameter.

Introduction ANS Analysis

As the heart is controlled directly by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, it acts as an effector organ to measure the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system register and process internal and external stimuli. They initiate the proper reactions (regulation) in order to optimally prepare the organism according to the needs of the moment (e.g. energy supply in times of sudden danger).

A malfunction of the ANS with an overactive sympathetic and hypoactive parasympathetic nervous system inevitably leads to a physiological change in the heart's excitation pattern. Thus, the heart rate variability (beat-to-beat interval) will be changed accordingly. This change is measurable.