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Cortical activation following a balance disturbance
S Quant1, A L Adkin, W R Staines
1Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. w.mcilroy@utoronto.ca
Experimental Brain Research
|February 18, 2004
Summary
Cortical processing in balance control is unclear. This study found early perturbation-evoked responses (PERs) reflect sensory input, while later PERs indicate sensorimotor processing for active balance corrections.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Cortical processing's role in balance control is suggested but not fully understood.
- Central mechanisms underlying balance responses require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate scalp-recorded perturbation-evoked responses (PERs) during a balance disturbance task.
- To differentiate sensory processing from sensorimotor processing in balance reactions.
Main Methods:
- Eight young adults performed an inverted pendulum task with ankle muscles.
- Perturbations were applied, with subjects either actively correcting or passively responding.
- Measured early (N1) and late PERs, and ankle muscle responses.
Main Results:
- Early PERs (N1) showed similar amplitudes across active and passive conditions, peaking at frontal-central sites (FCz, Cz).
- Late PERs at Cz were less positive in the active condition compared to the passive condition.
- N1 similarity suggests sensory representation, while late PER differences indicate sensorimotor processing.
Conclusions:
- Early PERs (N1) likely represent the sensory processing of a balance disturbance.
- Late PERs appear linked to the sensorimotor processing involved in executing balance corrections.
- Findings clarify the central mechanisms contributing to human balance control.