Regulation of arm and leg movement during human locomotion

Neuroscientist. 2004 Aug;10(4):347-61. doi: 10.1177/1073858404264680.

Abstract

Walking can be a very automated process, and it is likely that central pattern generators (CPGs) play a role in the coordination of the limbs. Recent evidence suggests that both the arms and legs are regulated by CPGs and that sensory feedback also regulates the CPG activity and assists in mediating interlimb coordination. Although the strength of coupling between the legs is stronger than that between the arms, arm and leg movements are similarly regulated by CPG activity and sensory feedback (e.g., reflex control) during locomotion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arm / innervation
  • Arm / physiology*
  • Feedback / physiology
  • Gait / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Leg / innervation
  • Leg / physiology*
  • Locomotion / physiology*
  • Movement / physiology*
  • Neural Pathways / physiology
  • Reflex / physiology
  • Spinal Cord / physiology