This review article explains the networks that the trunk in vertebrates with limbs, and also how the central nervous system acts dynamically on the musculoskeletal system.

Guillaud E, et al. Locomotion and dynamic posture: neuro-evolutionary basis of bipedal gait. Neurophysiologie Clinique/Clinical Neurophysiology (2020),  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neucli.2020.10.012

KEY POINTS: LOCOMOTION & DYNAMIC POSTURE

• Dynamic control of gait is supported by:
  
  • Locomotor activity that is produced by specialized rhythmogenic spinal circuits called central pattern generators (CPGs), and which cyclically drive axial and leg muscle activity (p.8)
  • Posture control systems which involve long spinal/supraspinal loops, and the integration of various sensory inputs (e.g. proprioceptive, visual and vestibular) at various supraspinal levels resulting in long latency responses (p.8).
    
    
• Dynamic balance in limbed vertebrates requires proper coordination of all...

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Locomotion and Dynamic Posture: Neuro-evolutionary Basis of Bipedal Gait

Guillaud E, et al. Locomotion and dynamic posture: neuro-evolutionary basis of bipedal gait. Neurophysiologie Clinique/Clinical Neurophysiology (2020),  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neucli.2020.10.012

This review article explains the networks that the trunk in vertebrates with limbs, and also how the central nervous system acts dynamically on the musculoskeletal system.

Key Points

• Dynamic control of gait is supported by:
  
  • Locomotor activity that is produced by specialized rhythmogenic spinal circuits called central pattern generators (CPGs), and which cyclically drive axial and leg muscle activity (p.8)
  • Posture control systems which involve long...

By no means a thorough or robust study, we are including this one because of our belief in evidence-informed practice, and this paper does serve as a reminder of the importance of the diaphragm for postural control. (Better references included below.)

Menon, Vivek V., Mudasir R. Baba, Pavankumar, and Sneha Suresh. "Effects of Diaphragmatic Training on Posture and Stability in Asymptomatic Subjects: A Randomized Clinical Trial." Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy 14, no. 2 (April-June 2020), 221-225.

ANATOMICAL REVIEW: THE DIAPHRAGM

• The thoracic diaphragm separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities.
• Comprised of central and peripheral parts, that converge at the central tendon.
• The central tendon fuses with the inferior surface of the pericardium.
• On either side of the central tendon, the diaphragm ascends to the left and right domes.

The peripheral, muscular portion  of the diaphragm is divided into...