beta wave

Beta waves

Beta wave, or beta rhythm, is the term used to designate the frequency range of brain activity between 12 and 30 Hz (12 to 30 transitions or cycles per second). Beta waves are split into three sections: High Beta Waves (19Hz+); Beta Waves (15-18Hz); and Low Beta Waves (12-15Hz). Beta states are the states associated with normal waking consciousness.

Function

Low amplitude beta waves with multiple and varying frequencies are often associated with active, busy, or anxious thinking and active concentration.

Over the motor cortex beta waves are associated with the muscle contractions that happen in isotonic movements and are suppressed prior to and during movement changes.^[1] Bursts of beta activity are associated with a strengthening of sensory feedback in static motor control and reduced when there is movement change.^[2] Beta activity is increased when movement has to be resisted or voluntarily suppressed.^[3] The artificial induction of increased beta waves over the motor cortex by a variety of Transcranial magnetic stimulation called trancranial alternating-current stimulation consistent with its link to isotonic contraction produces a slowing of motor movements.^[4]

Pathology

Rhythmic beta with a dominant set of frequencies is associated with various pathologies and drug effects. For instance, beta activity can be accentuated by sedative-hypnotic drugs such as benzodiazepines or barbiturates.^{[citation needed]} It can also be absent or reduced in a patient with cortical damage. Exaggerated beta activity is found in Parkinson’s disease and this links to their motor slowing.^[5]

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References