Focusing on the quantitative nature of biomechanics, this book integrates current literature, meaningful numerical examples, relevant applications, hands-on exercises, and functional anatomy, physics, calculus, and physiology to help students - regardless of their mathematical background - understand the full continuum of human movement potential.
The term "neuromechanics" defines an integrative approach that combines the neuromuscular control and the biomechanical aspects of physical behavior in humans and animals. Crucial to this approach is a detailed description and modeling of the interaction between the nervous system and the controlled biomechanical plant. Only then do we have the broader context within which to understand evolution, movement mechanics, neural control, energetics, disability and rehabilitation. In addition to enabling new basic science directions, understanding the interrelations between movement neural and mechanical function should also be leveraged for the development of personalized wearable technologies to augment or restore the motor capabilities of healthy or impaired individuals. Similarly, this understanding will empower us to revisit current approaches to the design and control of robotic and humanoid systems to produce truly versatile human-like physical behavior and adaptation in real-world environments. This Research Topic is therefore poised at an opportune moment to promote understanding of apparently disparate topics into a coherent focus.
From speech to breathing to overt movement contractions of muscles are the only way other than sweating whereby we literally make a mark on the world. Locomotion is an essential part of this equation and exciting new developments are shedding light on the mechanisms underlying how this important behavior occurs. The Neural Control of Movement discusses these developments across a variety of species including man. The editors focus on highlighting the utility of different models from invertebrates to vertebrates. Each chapter discusses how new approaches in neuroscience are being used to dissect and control neural networks. An area of emphasis is on vertebrate motor networks and particularly the spinal cord. The spinal cord is unique because it has seen the use of genetic tools allowing the dissection of networks for over ten years. This book provides practical details on model systems, approaches, and analysis approaches related to movement control. This book is written for neuroscientists interested in movement control. Provides practice details on model systems, approaches, and analysis approaches related to movement control Discusses how recent advances like optogenetics and chemogenetics affect the need for model systems to be modified (or not) to work for studies of movement and motor control Written for neuroscientists interested in movement control, especially movement disorders like Parkinson's, MS, spinal cord injury, and stroke
This updated edition of an Artech House classic introduces readers to the importance of engineering in medicine. Bioelectrical phenomena, principles of mass and momentum transport to the analysis of physiological systems, the importance of mechanical analysis in biological tissues/ organs and biomaterial selection are discussed in detail. Readers learn about the concepts of using living cells in various therapeutics and diagnostics, compartmental modeling, and biomedical instrumentation. The book explores fluid mechanics, strength of materials, statics and dynamics, basic thermodynamics, electrical circuits, and material science. A significant number of numerical problems have been generated using data from recent literature and are given as examples as well as exercise problems. These problems provide an opportunity for comprehensive understanding of the basic concepts, cutting edge technologies and emerging challenges. Describing the role of engineering in medicine today, this comprehensive volume covers a wide range of the most important topics in this burgeoning field. Moreover, you find a thorough treatment of the concept of using living cells in various therapeutics and diagnostics. Structured as a complete text for students with some engineering background, the book also makes a valuable reference for professionals new to the bioengineering field. This authoritative textbook features numerous exercises and problems in each chapter to help ensure a solid understanding of the material.
An examination of the link between the vigor with which we move and the value that the brain assigns to the goal of the movement. Why do we reflexively run toward people we love, but only walk toward others? In Vigor, Reza Shadmehr and Alaa Ahmed examine the link between how the brain assigns value to things and how it controls our movements. They find that brain regions thought to be principally involved in decision making also affect movement vigor--and that brain regions thought to be principally responsible for movement also bias patterns of decision making.
This addition to the Handbook series is presented in five sections. The first sections covers basic and applied science, including biomechanics, the physiologic demands of volleyball, conditioning and nutrition. The second section looks at the role of the medical professional in volleyball, covering team physicians, pre-participation examination, medical equipment at courtside and emergency planning. The third section looks at injuries - including prevention, epidemiology, upper and lower limb injuries and rehabilitation. The next section looks at those volleyball players who require special consideration: the young, the disabled, and the elite, as well as gender issues. Finally, section five looks at performance enhancement.
One of the Most Rapidly Advancing Fields in Modern Neuroscience The success of molecular biology and the new tools derived from molecular genetics have revolutionized pain research and its translation to therapeutic effectiveness. Bringing together recent advances in modern neuroscience regarding genetic studies in mice and humans and the practical
This book addresses the practical aspects of vibration exercise and vibration therapy. In addition, it describes the technical and physiological background, providing applied scientists and doctors with a deeper understanding of the therapeutic potential that vibration exercise holds. Having first emerged two decades ago, vibration exercise has since established itself as a widespread form of physical exercise, used in all rehabilitation areas. The goal of this book is to close the gap between scientific knowledge and practice. Given that occupational exposure to vibration leads to well-known unfavorable effects, the book is also dedicated to potential risks, hazards and contra-indications and of course, the application of vibration therapy in a number of specific conditions is presented in a clinically usable fashion. Given its breadth of coverage, this book will be of interest to physiotherapists and exercise scientists, but also to a wider range of physicians working in the field of rehabilitation.
Assessment and Treatment of Muscle Imbalance: The Janda Approachblends postural techniques, neurology, and functional capabilities in order to alleviate chronic musculoskeletal pain and promote greater functionality. Developed by Vladimir Janda, respected neurologist and physiotherapist , the Janda approach presents a unique perspective to rehabilitation. In contrast to a more traditional structural view, the Janda approach is functional—emphasizing the importance of the sensorimotor system in controlling movement and chronic musculoskeletal pain syndromes from sports and general activities.Assessment and Treatment of Muscle Imbalance: The Janda Approachis the only text to offer practical, evidence-based application of Janda’s theories. Filled with illustrations, photos, and step-by-step instructions, Assessment and Treatment of Muscle Imbalanceuses a systematic approach in presenting information that can be used in tandem with other clinical techniques. This resource for practitioners features the following tools: --A rationale for rehabilitation of the musculoskeletal sytem based on the relationship between the central nervous system and the motor system --A systematic method for the functional examination of the muscular system --Treatment processes focusing on the triad of normalization of peripheral structures, restoration of muscle balance, and facilitation of afferent systems and sensorimotor training --The role of muscle imbalance and functional pathology of sensorimotor systems for specific pain complaints, including cervical pain syndrome, upper- and lower-extremity pain syndromes, and low back pain syndromes Assessment and Treatment of Muscle Imbalanceprovides an evidence-based explanation of muscle imbalance. The step-by-step Janda system of evaluation is explained—including analysis of posture, balance, and gait; evaluation of movement patterns; testing of muscle length; and assessment of the soft tissue. The text explores treatment options for muscle imbalance through facilitation and inhibition techniques and sensorimotor training to restore neuromsucular function. It also includes four case studies examining musculoskeletal conditions and showing how the Janda approach compares with other treatments. This text combines theory, evidence, and applications to assist clinicians in implementing the Janda approach into their practice. Assessment and Treatment of Muscle Imbalance: The Janda Approachfocuses on the neurological aspects of muscle imbalance that are common causes of pain and dysfunction in sports and occupational activities. By distilling the scientific works of Vladimir Janda into a practical, systematic approach, this unique resource will assist health care providers in treating patients with musculoskeletal complaints as well as exercise professionals in developing appropriate exercise prescription and training programs.