Abstract des Autors

Introduction: To assess physiological effects of judo-induced choking, electroencephalographic power spectral changes were recorded in six experienced judokas after choking, using a "shime-waza-choking"-technique called juji-jime. Methods: Adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine were analyzed from urine sampled 4 h before and after choking. Blood samples taken before and 5, 10, 20 and 40 minutes after the manoeuvre allowed serum cortisol and prolactin analysis. Blood cell counts were done before and after choking. In addition, blood pressure was recorded before and during choking. Results: A significant increase in global field power in the delta- and theta-range was observed, while alpha-power significantly decreased. These changes reached a statistically significant level within a timespan up to 20 seconds after choking. Neither urinary noradrenaline and dopamine nor serum cortisol or prolactin changed significantly. Only urinary excretion of adrenaline rose significantly after choking. Blood cell count did not show any significant change after choking. Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased during choking. Conclusion: Choking performed on an average of 8 seconds does not lead to clinical neuropsychological symptomatology. Yet, spectral analysis evidences subclinical changes in brain function. Verf.-Referat