motor control unit 4

What is the primary role of the cerebellum in voluntary movement?

The cerebellum coordinates movement by integrating sensory input with motor commands to ensure smooth, accurate, and balanced execution.

How does the cerebellum contribute to motor learning?

It helps fine-tune movements through practice by adjusting motor output based on feedback, playing a key role in learning new motor skills.

What types of information does the cerebellum process to control movement?

It processes proprioceptive, vestibular, and visual information to adjust posture, balance, and timing of movements.

What is the function of the primary motor cortex in voluntary movement?

It initiates and executes voluntary movements by sending signals to muscles via the spinal cord.

How does the premotor cortex assist in movement control?

It plans and prepares movements, especially those guided by external stimuli (e.g., visual cues).

What role does the supplementary motor cortex play in movement?

It is involved in planning complex, internally generated movements and coordinating bilateral actions.

How do the motor cortices work together during voluntary movement?

They collaborate to plan, initiate, and refine movements, with each region contributing specific aspects of control.

What is the role of the basal ganglia in voluntary movement?

It regulates movement initiation, suppresses unwanted movements, and contributes to movement intensity and direction.

How does the basal ganglia interact with other motor areas?

It forms loops with the cortex and thalamus to modulate motor commands before execution.

What neurotransmitter is critical for basal ganglia function?

Dopamine, which facilitates movement by modulating activity in motor pathways.

What movement deficits occur with cerebellar damage?

Ataxia (lack of coordination), tremors, poor balance, and difficulty with motor learning.

What are the effects of damage to the primary motor cortex?

Muscle weakness or paralysis on the opposite side of the body, and impaired fine motor control.

What deficits result from premotor cortex damage?

Difficulty with movement planning, especially in response to external cues, and impaired coordination.

What happens when the supplementary motor cortex is damaged?

Problems with initiating internally driven movements and coordinating movements across both sides of the body.

What movement disorders are associated with basal ganglia damage?

Parkinson’s disease (bradykinesia, rigidity, tremors), Huntington’s disease (involuntary movements), and dystonia.