How we walk: central control of muscle activity during human walking

Neuroscientist. 2003 Jun;9(3):195-204. doi: 10.1177/1073858403009003012.

Abstract

Recent advances in noninvasive electrophysiological and brain imaging techniques have made investigation of the central control of human walking possible. We are thus now able to ask in what way the motor control circuitries in the human brain and spinal cord have been modified in order to control bipedal walking. This information is of importance not only for our understanding of basic control strategies and paradigms but also for future attempts at rehabilitating the gait ability of patients after lesions of the brain and spinal cord.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological
  • Animals
  • Biofeedback, Psychology
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Central Nervous System / cytology
  • Central Nervous System / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Motor Cortex / physiology
  • Motor Neurons / physiology
  • Musculoskeletal Physiological Phenomena*
  • Spinal Cord / physiology
  • Walking / physiology*