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Related Experiment Videos

A grab reflex in the human hand

M M Traub, J C Rothwell, C D Marsden

    Brain : a Journal of Neurology
    |December 1, 1980
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    This study investigated thumb muscle responses to indirect stretching or unloading. Unexpected EMG bursts indicate an automatic

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    Area of Science:

    • Neuroscience
    • Biomechanics
    • Motor Control

    Background:

    • The flexor pollicis longus muscle's response to indirect manipulation (stretching or unloading) via wrist alteration was examined.
    • Previous research focused on direct muscle manipulation, leaving indirect effects less understood.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the flexor pollicis longus and finger flexors during indirect wrist-induced thumb movements.
    • To determine the sensory origins and task-dependency of these responses.

    Main Methods:

    • Subjects performed thumb flexion against a lever while wrist forces were altered to indirectly stretch or unload the flexor pollicis longus.
    • Electromyography (EMG) recorded muscle activity.
    • Sensory nerve blocks (cutaneous and motor point) and arm bracing were used to identify response origins.

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    Main Results:

    • Indirect unloading of the flexor pollicis longus by wrist pull elicited an EMG burst (50-60 ms latency), unlike direct unloading.
    • Indirect stretching caused an initial EMG burst followed by a paradoxical silent period.
    • Responses were reduced by arm bracing, suggesting proximal (shoulder) movement involvement, and were task-dependent, not solely reflex.

    Conclusions:

    • Indirect manipulation of the flexor pollicis longus elicits distinct EMG responses compared to direct manipulation.
    • These responses appear to be influenced by proximal limb dynamics and task context, suggesting a 'grab reflex' for object maintenance.
    • The findings highlight the complex interplay of sensory input, motor commands, and task goals in fine motor control.