Neural control of human gait and posture

• Main Authors: Kimitaka Nakazawa, Hiroki Obata, Shun Sasagawa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine 2012-09-01
• Series: Journal of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine
• Subjects: human; gait; posture; neural control; neurorehabilitation
• Online Access: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jpfsm/1/2/1_263/_pdf/-char/en

Recent developments in neuroscience techniques such as brain imaging, functional brain imaging, and non-invasive brain stimulation, have made it possible to directly study able-bodied humans while engaged in various motor tasks. As a result of these technological advances, the last couple of decades have experienced a significant increase in new findings in the field of motor control and, more specifically, on the control of gait and posture. However, there are still a lot of difficulties and limitations in studying human neural activities during dynamic movements, like walking. In this short review, recent advances in knowledge on human gait and posture will be reviewed.