Citation

Vasudevan EV, Torres-Oviedo G, Morton SM, Yang JF, Bastian AJ. J. Neurosci. 2011; 31(8): 3055-3065.

Affiliation

Motion Analysis Laboratory, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, Graduate Program in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, and Centre for Neuroscience and Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada T6G 2G4.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Society for Neuroscience)

DOI

10.1523/JNEUROSCI.5781-10.2011

PMID

21414926

PMCID

PMC3084584

Abstract

New walking patterns can be learned over short timescales (i.e., adapted in minutes) using a split-belt treadmill that controls the speed of each leg independently. This leads to storage of a modified spatial and temporal motor pattern that is expressed as an aftereffect in regular walking conditions. Because split-belt walking is a novel task for adults and children alike, we used it to investigate how motor adaptation matures during human development. We also asked whether the immature pattern resembles that of people with cerebellar dysfunction, because we know that this adaptation depends on cerebellar integrity. Healthy children (3-18 years old) and adults, and individuals with cerebellar damage were adapted while walking on split belts (1:2 speed ratio). Adaptation and de-adaptation rates were quantified separately for temporal and spatial parameters. All healthy children and adults tested could learn the new timing at the same rate and showed significant aftereffects. However, children younger than 6 years old were unable to learn the new spatial coordination. Furthermore, children as old as age 11 years old showed slower rates of adaptation and de-adaptation of spatial parameters of walking. Young children showed patterns similar to cerebellar patients, with greater deficits in spatial versus temporal adaptation. Thus, although walking is a well-practiced, refined motor skill by late childhood (i.e., 11 years of age), the processes underlying learning new spatial relationships between the legs are still developing. The maturation of locomotor adaptation follows at least two time courses, which we propose is determined by the developmental state of the cerebellum.

Language: en