Vibration-induced motor responses of infants with and without myelomeningocele.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The severity of myelomeningocele (MMC) stems both from a loss of neurons due to neural tube defect and a loss of function in viable neurons due to reduced movement experience during the first year after birth. In young infants with MMC, the challenge is to reinforce excitability and voluntary control of all available neurons. Muscle vibration paired with voluntary movement may increase motoneuron excitability and contribute to improvements in neural organization, responsiveness, and control.

Objectives

This study examined whether infants with or without MMC respond to vibration by altering their step or stance behavior when supported upright on a treadmill.

Design

This was a cross-sectional study.

Methods

Twenty-four 2- to 10-month-old infants, 12 wi

SUBMITTER: Saavedra SL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3317481 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature