運動スピードが体性感覚入力に及ぼす影響

抄録

When performing a movement, many features of sensory information are used as inputs and integrated. Smooth movement is made possible by selecting the necessary information from all sensory inputs. The somatosensory input of the movement is adjusted at different levels, such as at the level of the spinal cord, brainstem, and sensory cortex. However, sensory tests used by physical therapists provide only the sensory information perceivable through parietal association fields. Further, somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) occur in tests of the somatic sensory function. Understanding of SEPs enables evaluation of the posterior track; therefore, it is possible to determine the occurrence of somatosensory input adjustment at any stage. A characteristic decrease in the SEP amplitude is noted with an increase in the speed and intensity of movement. Thus, it is important to understand the relationship between motor speed and somatosensory inputs. In this paper, we introduce our study of the relationship between physical movements and somatosensory inputs, and provide recommendations for physical therapy practice.