Neurophysiological Basis of Movement

Neurophysiological Basis of Movement is the only contemporary comprehensive textbook on the neurophysiology of voluntary movement. The book also covers relevant information from the study of biomechanics, anatomy, control theory, and motor disorders. It emphasizes neurophysiological mechanisms that apply to the processes of voluntary movements.The text covers a semester's worth of material about the neurophysiological aspects of five major areas: cells, reflexes, structures, behaviors, and disorders. Additional topics include- basic functional anatomy,- physical and chemical foundations of brain functioning in relation to control of voluntary movements,- muscle reflexes and spinal connections,- basic mechanics of muscle contraction, and- the basis of kinesthesia.The book applies these topics to specifictasks such as standing, locomotion, eye movement control, and reaching.The reader-friendly text also features- 156 one-minute drills to challenge students' knowledge of the material;- 262 illustrations to help students understand the neurophysiological mechanisms necessary for voluntary movements such as standing, locomotion, and reaching; and- 6 lab studies that provide hands-on experience.Several motor disorders are discussed, including spinal cord injury and Parkinson's disease, as well as issues of motor rehabilitation. Readers also will appreciate the references that accompany each of five Worlds and a glossary for the entire text.