Modulation of lower limb muscles and trajectory correction in the bipedal stance during visual perturbation

Abstract

The ability to actively track posture using visual targets as indicators is important for improving impairments in whole-body coordination, and accurate visual feedback on tasks is considered effective in promoting sensory-motor integration and behavioral success. In the present study, we examined inter- and intramuscular modulation between the two lower limbs in response to visual perturbation. Sixteen healthy young subjects (age: 21.3 ± 0.7 years) were asked to move their weight back and forth while tracking a visual target displayed on a monitor in front of them for 30 s. Three types of target movements were examined: a sinusoidal wave (i.e., a predictable pattern), more complex patterns (random), and no movement (stationary). Electromyography (EMG) was used to assess intra- and intermuscular coherence modulation of the plantar flexor muscles (right and left soleus and right and left medial gastrocnemius). The ability to adjust posture to follow the target signal was assessed using a stabilometer. Inter- and intramuscular coherence increased during the visual perturbation task compared to the stationary task. In addition, left-right differences in lower limb modulation were observed during the visual perturbation task. Furthermore, interlimb coherence was related to the motor accuracy of tracking. The muscles of both lower limbs cooperated in response to visual perturbation, suggesting that these muscles control visually induced anteroposterior postural sway. Since such visual perturbations promote coordination between both lower extremities, this relationship may indicate the potential for rehabilitation training to help individuals acquire and improve the motor functions necessary to efficiently and stably perform activities of daily living.