Whether we're on a balance beam or a slippery patch of ice, we often have to correct abrupt changes in motion to prevent a fall. Scientists have long known that the vestibular system in our inner ears is crucial to this process, but in a new study in Current Biology, researchers at McGill University have identified a tiny patch of neurons that respond to these sudden changes in movement to keep us balanced and upright. These neurons are key in perceiving what scientists call sensory conflicts: when the information from what our brains are predicting will happen next and the other information coming in from our senses. These neurons, located in the cerebellum, may help explain not only why we're usually so good at catching ourselves before we fall, but also how to better understand, prevent, and even treat motion sickness.
Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/newsroom/node/18958
Can we keep balanced without practicing?
ReplyDeleteBalance can be learned, challenged and improved. Think of a toddler learning to walk and the process he goes through trying to gain the balance to be able to move freely. Once he learns to balance his body, he has control over his movements.
ReplyDeleteDoesn't matter whether u are floating in a weightless dive or experiencing higher than normal gravity (about 1.8 g) during a climb. Motion sickness can strike at both instances because the inner ear is receiving unexpected information about the local gravity... you're right Bryon ;)
ReplyDeleteCorina Marinescu wonderful post! I am very curious if, with the aid of technology balance can be trained or conditioned in those individuals with mild Cerebral Palsy?
ReplyDeleteIndividuals with CP can increase strength and improve balance and motion through weight training.
ReplyDeleteIn the past people with CP were not encouraged to strength train because it was felt this would increase spasticity and reduce flexibility, which would lead to the worsening their condition.
Also this year dr's from Department of Paediatrics at the Catholic Hospital Bochum reported treating cerebral palsy with autologous cord blood.
U can read the press release here:
http://aktuell.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/pm2013/pm00151.html.en
Looks like a cure or at least treatment will come from umbilical cord blood stem cells.