Motor Cortex and Motor Pathway Overview

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the motor cortex, hierarchy of motor pathways, and motor control mechanisms.

Hierarchy in the motor pathway

The three levels consist of the prefrontal cortex (executive functions), premotor cortex (organization and coordination), and primary motor cortex (execution of movements).

Function of the Prefrontal Cortex

Involved in executive functioning, including decision-making and complex cognitive tasks.

Role of the Premotor Cortex

Responsible for the organization and coordination of motor movements.

Primary Motor Cortex

The area responsible for executing movements.

Homunculus

A representation of the body in the motor cortex that illustrates the amount of cortical area devoted to each body part based on the precision of movement required.

Dorsal Stream

A pathway in the motor system involved in the planning and execution of movement.

Topographic Organization

Mapping of cortical areas to specific body parts, reflecting the functions or movements associated with those parts.

Corticospinal Tract

The pathway formed by axons from the motor cortex that travel down to the spinal cord to execute movement.

Efferent Neurons

Motor neurons that carry impulses away from the central nervous system to muscles causing muscle contractions.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, particularly through learning and rehabilitation.

Lateral Corticospinal Tract

Controls voluntary movement of distal parts of the body, characterized by contralateral representation.

Ventral Corticospinal Tract

Carries fibers related to proximal muscles that maintain ipsilateral representation.

Motor Skills Learning

The process through which individuals enhance their motor control and skill execution through practice and experience, reflected by changes in the motor cortex.

Importance of Rehabilitation

Engaging in movement therapy improves recovery and maintains motor function after injury to the motor cortex.

Motor Neurons and Forces

Motor task performance is coded by the firing rate of motor neurons, indicating the force, direction, and specific muscles used.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

A non-invasive method used to stimulate small regions of the brain and study motor functions.

Motor Planning

The process of strategically organizing movements before execution.

Fine Motor Skills

Highly coordinated movements, often involving smaller muscle groups, critical for tasks like speaking and using hands.

Muscle Pairs

Muscles work in opposing pairs (flexors and extensors) to control movement.