theories of Motor control and motor development

Question 1

Motor control definition

Answer 1

the ability to regulate body posture and movement under different conditions
- important for functional activities and can be impaired

Question 2

Reflex theory

Answer 2

• the basis of movement is the summation of reflexes
• all movements are responding to the environment
• sensory information causes movement

Question 3

What are some uses of reflex model

Answer 3

• testing reflexes in adults and developmental or primitive reflexes in children
• PNF proprioceptive neuromuslcar facilitation is based of reflexes

Question 4

what is the hierarchical theory

Answer 4

• Top down model
• higher levels of CNS control the lower levels
• CNS controls peripheral movements
• Brain controls the SC which controls the PNS

Question 5

Uses of Hierarchical theories

Answer 5

1. stages of motor control
   - mobility
   - stability
   - dynamic postural control
   - skill
2. Developmental sequence occurs prone to standing
3. development occurs
   - cephalo to caudal
   - proximal to distal
   - gross to fine control
   - total body movements (one unity) to dissociated movements (EX: upper body and lower body can move independently)

Question 6

Motor program theory

Answer 6

• we have genetically-based internal programs for movement
• central pattern generators: internal systems that allow for movements such as walking (these are automatic and are not taught)
• learning patterns that transfer to many conditions

Question 7

Dynamic systems theory

Answer 7

• motor control is the result of the interdependence (dependence of 2 or more things) of many internal and external systems
• motor behavior is the result of interaction between the individual, environment, and task
• EX: you will move differently when you are walking due to being late

Question 8

Dynamic systems uses:

Answer 8

• interaction between visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems for balance/movement
• changes in gait or movement with injury or illness
• task-oriented approach of rehab

Question 9

Perceptive-action theory and ecological theory

Answer 9

• in order to move there is a goal such as hunger
• internal or external goal or stimulant
• there is an internal model which links perception and action
• how we move depends on the environment

Question 10

Neural-Maturation theory

Answer 10

• development
• pre-determined hierarchical system/pre-determined way to move
• control of reflexes leads to more refined movement
• spiral development: flexion/extension and symmetry/asymmetry

Question 11

Cognitive behaviorism theory of development

Answer 11

• environment shapes motor and cognitive development
• stimulation from environment is necessary for development or occur

Question 12

Neuronal group selection

Answer 12

• functional circuits of neuronal activities
• practice strengthens some connections and weakens others
• parallel and reciprocal connections unique to each individual

Question 13

Embodied mind concept (development)

Answer 13

• link between what we know and what our bodies can do
• action and perception are needed for brain development
• functional tasks are completed by selecting from available neuronal options

Question 14

Systems theory

Answer 14

• body is a system with multiple degrees of freedom
• hierarchical control of muscle synergies
• muscles work together for movements

Question 15

Uncontrolled Manifold Hypothesis (UCM)

Answer 15

• Use synergies to define a coordination pattern
• in any synergy there are multiple possibilities which will all result in some degree of accuracy
• practice helps to select the best combination of movements
• EX: how much each muscle will contract can affect the movement