Sensory-motor interactions and error augmentation

Abstract

Brain injury often results a partial loss of the neural resources communicating to the periphery that controls movements. Consequently the signals that were employed prior to injury may no longer be appropriate for controlling the muscles for the intended movement. Hence, a new pattern of signals may need to be learned that appropriately uses the residual resources. The learning required in these circumstances might in fact share features with sports, music performance, surgery, teleoperation, piloting, and child development. Our lab has leveraged key findings in neural adaptation as well as established principles in engineering control theory to develop and test new interactive environments that enhance learning (or relearning). Successful application comes from the use of robotics and video feedback technology to augment error signals. These applications test standing hypotheses about error-mediated neuroplasticity and illustrate an exciting prospect for rehabilitation environments of tomorrow. This chapter highlights our works, identifies our acquired knowledge, and outlines some of the successful pathways for restoring function to brain- injured individuals.