Unveiling the Marvels of Neurology in Movement
Today, we're diving deep into the incredible neurological loop that governs your every move. Picture this: healthy, strong movement is like a symphony of neurological signals, a beautiful dance between various parts of your brain. We're about to explore a fascinating loop that plays a pivotal role in ensuring your movements are on point.
In this loop, we have three main stars: the cortex (that's your big thinking brain), the cerebellum (your precision master), and the PMRF (a part of your brainstem, responsible for stability and tone). Together, they create a harmonious ballet of movement commands, corrections, and coordination.
The Command Center: Cortex
Now, let's break it down step by step. Imagine you want to wiggle your right fingers – a simple yet amazing feat. The command for this voluntary movement originates in your left cortex, specifically the frontal lobe. Your left cortex sends a precise message to your right fingers: "Wiggle, please!”
But here's the mind-blowing part: it also CCs (carbon copies) this message to your right cerebellum, like an email to ensure everyone is on the same page. Your right cerebellum takes on the role of a tattletale sibling, always watching and ensuring accuracy, balance, and coordination. It also manages error correction, ensuring that your fingers are doing exactly what you intended. If something seems off, it won't hesitate to send a report back to the left cortex.
So, if your right fingers aren't wiggling quite as perfectly as you'd like, your right cerebellum might signal to the left cortex: "Hey, something's not right here. Can you fix it, please?" And the left cortex appreciates the feedback.
The Stabilizer: An area of the Brainstem (PMRF)
But that's not all. As your left cortex is commanding your right fingers, it's also sending instructions to an area of your left brainstem. The left PMRF's job is crucial – it stabilizes your body (in this example it would be the left side of body) as your right fingers make their delightful dance. Without this stability, you'd tip over like a wobbly tower.
Here's an interesting tidbit: around 80-90% of the command to make a movement happen on one side is dedicated to stabilizing the opposite side. That's right! When you're lifting your right arm, most of the effort is going into stabilizing the left side.
The Loop in Action: A Symphony of Signals
So, let's recap this incredible symphony of signals:
The left cortex commands your right fingers to move.
It CCs this command to the right cerebellum.
The right cerebellum keeps an eagle eye on accuracy, balance, and coordination.
Your left cortex also sends signals to your left PMRF for stability.
Joint receptors ensure everything is on track.
The right cerebellum tattletales any discrepancies back to the left cortex.
The loop continues, working in harmony to make your movement seamless.
This loop is lightning fast, like a camera flash, and it's the magic behind your every move.
What This Means for You
Now, you might be wondering, "How does this apply to me as a trainer or therapist?" Well, this newfound knowledge is your secret weapon. When you encounter a client who seems stuck or unresponsive to your usual methods, you can turn to this neurological loop for answers.
Maybe their right arm overhead press just isn't improving despite all your efforts. You'll know to assess their left brain and cranial nerves, ensuring everything is working as it should.
The possibilities are endless. Whether it's a single-leg deadlift, a row, or a shot for a basketball player, you now have this loop to assess and enhance. It's your key to unlocking new potential and helping clients achieve their best performance.
So, as you guide your clients towards healthier, more efficient movement, remember the incredible symphony happening within their brains. It's a marvel worth celebrating, and you're the conductor helping them hit all the right notes. Drop the mic and let the movement magic begin!