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Motor Control and Movement Science
Faculty working in these areas study mechanisms underlying movement
control in both able-bodied subjects and patients with neuromuscular
disorders, primarily stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI). These investigations
seek valid neurophysiological principles on which to base neurorehabilitation
interventions. Study approaches include: the examination of temporal
and spatial components of muscle activity during upper extremity movement;
exploration of kinematics and ground reaction forces during biomechanical
assessments; measuring changes in kinetics of upper extremity grasp under
varying conditions and in different work spaces; applying transcranial
magnetic stimulation and functional neuroimaging as evaluation tools
associated with novel interventions. In addition studies examine reflex
responses to specific joint and total body perturbations in order to
better comprehend spinal and cortical organization of movement control.
Clinical studies range from exploring novel interventions to improve
upper extremity function, including constraint induced movement therapy,
mental imagery and robotics to pharmacological interventions to reduce
spasticity.
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