Wow! eBook
Afferent Control of Posture and Locomotion
Author(s): J. H. J. Allum (Editor), M. Hulliger
- Publisher: Elsevier Science Ltd
- Publication Date: 1 Mar. 1990
- Language: English
- Print length: 540 pages
- ISBN-10: 9780444812254
- ISBN-13: 0444812253
Book Description
How are the functions of control, integration and generation of motor commands performed by the brain? A view of the motor systems of the brain as hierarchically organized structures, where neurone populations and simple reflex pathways form elementary building blocks, answers this question. There are contradictory forecasts of how major advances in our understanding of posture and locomotion will develop. Some believe that the key to understanding lies in a detailed knowledge of the cortical and subcortical structures, while others regard a thorough grasp of spinal and brainstem neuronal circuitry as crucial. Yet another approach is to study human or animal postural and locomotive behaviour, looking for influences that act to select one of several potential motor patterns or strategies under a given set of circumstances. While each of these viewpoints has its strengths – and weaknesses – real progress can only be achieved through a constructive exchange of ideas, criticism and information. To make this possible, a group of scientists gathered in Switzerland in September 1988 to present and discuss their research. This book represents the scientific outcome of that meeting. Its subject matter reflects closely the different approaches of the participants: current research on sensory transduction, spinal integration, and higher order neuronal and behavioural control. Using a technique of overview and critique of each group of papers we hope that the non-specialist reader can also grasp the issues involved and the directions for further research in motor control.
