Locomotor-Like Leg Movements Evoked by Rhythmic Arm Movements in Humans

摘要: Motion of the upper limbs is often coupled to that lower in human bipedal locomotion. It unclear, however, whether functional coupling between and bi-directional, i.e. arm movements can affect lumbosacral locomotor circuitry. Here we tested effects voluntary rhythmic on limbs. Participants lay horizontally their side with each leg suspended an unloading exoskeleton. They moved arms overhead treadmill as if they walked hands. Hand-walking antero-posterior direction resulted significant locomotor-like legs 58% participants. We further investigated quantitatively responses a subset responsive subjects. found electromyographic (EMG) activity proximal muscles was modulated over cycle timing similar normal The frequency kinematic EMG oscillations typically differed from oscillations. effect hand-walking specific since medio-lateral did not evoke appreciably air-stepping. Using externally imposed trunk biomechanical modelling, ruled out associated were mainly due mechanical transmission hamstring continued when transiently blocked by experimenter or following termination movements. present results reinforce idea there exists neural legs.