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Published on: January 17, 2013
Optimal movement variability: a new theoretical perspective for neurologic physical therapy.
Nicholas Stergiou1, Regina Harbourne, James Cavanaugh
1HPER Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Nebraska at Omaha, USA. nstergiou@mail.unomaha.edu
Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy : JNPT
|October 13, 2006
Summary
Optimal movement variability is key for motor learning and health. Too little or too much variability hinders adaptability, impacting development and recovery. This study proposes a model for achieving optimal movement variability.
Area of Science:
- Human movement science
- Motor control and learning
- Rehabilitation science
Background:
- Movement variability is a fundamental aspect of human motor control.
- Existing theories provide a foundation for understanding movement variability's role in motor learning and health.
- A new model is proposed to explain movement variability in relation to motor learning and health.
Observation:
- Mature motor skills and healthy states are linked to an optimal level of movement variability.
- Movement variability exhibits a chaotic structure.
- Deviations from optimal variability (too rigid or too noisy) reduce adaptability.
Findings:
- Suboptimal movement variability is associated with conditions like abnormal motor development and unhealthy states.
- Neurologic physical therapy aims to foster optimal movement variability through diverse movement strategies.
- Complex variations in human movement enhance motor development and functional recovery by promoting active engagement.
Implications:
- The proposed model offers a framework for understanding and intervening in movement variability.
- Nonlinear dynamics tools can measure movement variability complexity, aiding in testing theoretical propositions.
- Clinical case studies demonstrate the application of this framework in assessing postural control changes.
