Stimulation site and phase modulation of the withdrawal reflex during gait initiation

Muscular activity, neural mechanisms, and biomechanical forces are highly integrated in the gait initiation process (GIP) (Mann et al., 1979). In this complex process, forces generated by the legs serve to limit postural perturbations and provide forward propulsion. However, in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) or stroke, this process is sometimes disrupted (Hesse et al., 1997; Hass et al., 2005). In particular, people who suffered a stroke often have problems generating force in the starting leg and difficulties to load the limbs symmetrically during gait initiation (Brunt et al., 1995).

Source: Clinical Neurophysiology - February 14, 2015 Category: Neuroscience Authors: Miguel A. Richard, Erika G. Spaich, Mariano Serrao, Ole K. Andersen Source Type: research