Cognitive motor deficits in cannabis users.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Movement Science
• Addiction Research

Background:

• Cannabis use impacts cortico-striatal networks critical for motor function.
• Existing research primarily focuses on cognitive deficits and specific motor behaviors like driving.
• A significant gap exists in understanding motor learning impairments associated with cannabis use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on motor system dysfunction in cannabis users.
• To highlight the importance of motor learning as an area for cannabis research.
• To explore potential therapeutic avenues targeting the motor system.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on cannabis use and motor function.
• Analysis of research focusing on cognitive, performance, and learning aspects of motor control.
• Synthesis of findings related to cortico-striatal network involvement.

Main Results:

• Cannabis use is linked to demonstrable motor performance impairments.
• Evidence for specific motor learning deficits in cannabis users is currently limited.
• The cortico-striatal network is implicated in both cannabis addiction and motor control.

Conclusions:

• Cannabis use affects motor control and learning through its impact on cortico-striatal pathways.
• Motor learning deficits represent a critical, understudied area in cannabis research.
• The motor system offers promising targets for novel treatment and rehabilitation strategies in cannabis users.