Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine whether visual-response training using mastication task shortens audio-response time. Fourteen male subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups: a training group, which underwent response training consisting of a mastication task in response to visual signal, and a control group, which did not undergo response training. Training group conducted the response training for 2 day/week, for 4 weeks, and both groups performed same reaction time test to visual or audio signal before (Pre-test) and after (Post-test) the training. Pre-motor time (PMT), motor evoked potential (MEP) latency and ΔPMT-MEP latency were measured at the test. PMT and ΔPMT-MEP latency to visual or audio signal in the training group were significantly shorter at Post-test than at Pre-test, and no significant differences were observed in the control group between the tests. On the other hand, relative reduction in the ΔPMT-MEP latency of training group was significantly greater in visual signal (11.8%) than in audio signal (8.7%).
