2014 Volume 22 Pages 81-91
In the present study, we defined the ability of motor control based on the somatosensory input as a somatosensory-motor integration function, and performed a motor task termed as the kinetic-equilibrating task to evaluate this function. The kinetic-equilibrating task was performed by using a haptic device. The subjects were instructed to maintain their limb position against the passive force, and the change in the limb position was recorded. The recorded values were compared in the ascending and descending phase of the passive force. In addition, the influence of the duration of the subjects’ sports career on the recorded values was examined. The results indicated that maintain the limb position was more difficult than in the ascending phase of the passive force, and a marked influence of the duration of the subjects’ sports career was showed in the descending phase. Moreover, by using a kinetic-equilibrating task, we verified the practice effect on the somatosensory-motor integration function, motor function (fluctuation of force production), and sensory function (detection threshold of movement). Furthermore, the values recorded during the kinetic equilibrating task in the ascending and descending phases had both improved after the practice period. In addition, the motor function and sensory function had also improved after the practice period. Thus, the current findings confirmed the validity of using the kinetic-equilibrating task, involving a haptic device, for the evaluation of somatosensory-motor integration function. These results suggested that the task was a very useful practice method for improving somatosensory-motor integration function, motor function, and sensory function.
