Adaptive Feedback Control in Human Reaching Adaptation to Force Fields

Abstract

Sensorimotor adaptation is a central function of the nervous system, as it allows humans and other animals to flexibly anticipate their interaction with the environment. In the context of human reaching adaptation to force fields, studies have traditionally separated feedforward (FF) and feedback (FB) processes involved in the improvement of behavior. Here, we review computational models of FF adaptation to force fields and discuss them in light of recent evidence highlighting a clear involvement of feedback control. Instead of a model in which FF and FB mechanisms adapt in parallel, we discuss how online adaptation in the feedback control system can explain both trial-by-trial adaptation and improvements in online motor corrections. Importantly, this computational model combines sensorimotor control and short-term adaptation in a single framework, offering novel perspectives for our understanding of human reaching adaptation and control.