Motor Adaptation by Error Augmentation Force Field in Healthy Peoples' Upper Extremity

Motor Adaptation by Error Augmentation Force Field in Healthy Peoples' Upper Extremity, a Randomized Controlled Trial

Inducing a systematic perturbation forces on the hand during arm reaching movement may improve adaptation. Error-augmentation (EA) training is relatively new concept in motor learning intended to promote the adaptation process. In this study participants will practice one session of training on 3D robotic device. Healthy volunteers will be randomly divided into two groups: study and control. The study group will carry out the training session with EA forces. The control group will carry out the same procedure with null force field. Outcome measure are the average size of trajectory error from the straight line and level of exertion (borg scale).

A single process involved in motor learning is adaptation. Hand reaching movement has been extensively used to evaluate the concept of motor adaptation. By inducing a systematic perturbation on the hand, it is possible to examine the implicit motor response on the trajectory of the hand. Error-augmentation (EA) training is relatively new concept in motor learning intended to promote the adaptation process. Applying these perturbating forces on the hand shift the hand trajectory form the straight line to a curve like shape. Making repetitive movement under the same conditions will results in a gradual correction of this faulty movement trajectory toward the straight line, e.g. motor adaptation.

Participants: Healthy volunteers, aged 20-50, males and females. The participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: study or control group.

Procedure: One practice session of 25 minutes on 3D robotic device. The study group will carry out the session with EA forces. The control group will carry out the same training without the EA forces.

Outcome Measures: Size of trajectory error from the straight line, level of exertion.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurologic disease, orthopedic syndrome of the dominant upper extremity.