The Sensomotor Nature of Postural Functions. Its Fundamental Role in Rehabilitation of the Motor System

Summary

Clinical practice has taught us that changes in function affect the motor system as a whole, forming chains. This requires the existence of a centrally controlled programme. The neurophysiological basis of this programme can only be understood on the basis of developmental neurology, from which it is possible to conclude that in the course of early infancy the original reciprocal muscle activity on a spinal level is replaced by a centrally controlled co-activation pattern, essential for erect bipedal posture. This further determines the sensomotor relations between all sections of the organism, which have so far not been adequately explained. They are fundamental for modern diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in motor rehabilitation. The neurophysiological principles dealt with here are also important for neurology, orthopaedics, even for anatomy.

Key words::

• postural function
• sensomotor relations
• co-activation patterns
• developmental neurology