Organization of preparatory postural responses for the initiation of lateral body motion during goal directed leg movements

Abstract

Postural responses preceding single leg flexion movements were examined in human subjects with respect to a hypothesized primary role of the hip joint abductor-adductor musculature in initiating lateral body motion during alterations in stance. The results indicated a speed sensitive interlimb response organization compatible with predictions based on a mechanical model. In conjunction with other recent studies, the findings may be indicative of a common organizational substrate for the initiation of laterally directed motion of the body.