Neurophysiology/neuromechanics in human motor control (2024)

Controlling human movement involves intrinsic neurophysiological features that modulate motor actions. Motor actions occur predominantly against some type of mechanical resistance and/or environmental interaction. It has become evident that a true understanding of human movement requires one to gather knowledge in human neurophysiology and neuromechanics.

This course offers PhD students a basic background on relevant aspects of neural control of movements, which often merge physiological and mechanical factors to explain motor performance. We will invite world-class researchers from the fields of neurophysiology and neuromechanics to share their latest findings in applied research towards improvements in human performance and neurorehabilitation. In addition, the course will offer a practical session of recordings involving relevant methods in neurophysiology/neuromechanics, such as EEG, EMG, and force control. The aim is to provide students with introductory knowledge and practical skills to conduct studies regarding neural control of movements.

 Topics covered in the course will include basic physiological and mechanical factors of movement control, novel methods in neurophysiology and neuromechanics research, control of human locomotion and cyclical movements, control of upper limb movements (reaching and grasping), and perspectives in neurorehabilitation. Students will have the opportunity to reflect on these research trends and discuss the potential use of neurophysiological measurements in their own PhD studies by performing presentations during the course.

Literature/Requirements:

Selected papers and book chapters will be provided to the participants shortly before the course.

Prerequisites:

A basic background within anatomy and physiology is desirable. Knowledge in movement biomechanics is desirable, but not necessary.

Evaluation:

Students will be asked to make a presentation integrating the content from lectures to solving aspects of their PhD projects. The three lecturers will be present during the presentations, maximizing the possibility of providing useful feedback to the students.