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Changes in saccadic reaction time while maintaining neck flexion in men and women
K Fujiwara1, K Kunita, H Toyama
1Faculty of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-machi, Kanazawa, 920-8640 Japan. fujikatu@med.kanazawa-u.ac.jp
European Journal of Applied Physiology
|February 9, 2000
Summary
Neck flexion affects saccadic reaction time, especially without chin support, where faster eye movements correlate with increased neck muscle activity. Reliability of these measurements was confirmed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Kinesiology
- Human Factors
Background:
- Saccadic reaction time (SRT) is a crucial measure of sensorimotor function.
- Neck muscle activity can influence head and eye movements.
- Understanding the interplay between neck proprioception and oculomotor control is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between neck extensor muscle activity and SRT during neck flexion.
- To assess measurement reliability for muscle activity and SRT.
- To explore the influence of chin support on this relationship.
Main Methods:
- SRT was measured during controlled neck flexion (0-25 degrees) with and without chin support.
- Electromyogram (EMG) recordings of trapezius muscle activity were used.
- Measurements were repeated to ensure reliability over 1-hour and short intervals.
Main Results:
- High reliability was found for both muscle activity and SRT measurements.
- Without chin support, increasing neck flexion led to gradual muscle activity increase and decreased SRT.
- SRT decreased with neck flexion up to 20 degrees, but optimal angles varied individually.
Conclusions:
- Neck muscle activity and SRT are reliably linked, particularly without chin support.
- Neck flexion can modulate SRT, suggesting proprioceptive feedback influences oculomotor responses.
- These findings have implications for understanding head-eye coordination and potential interventions.