Proprioceptive input overrides vestibulospinal drive during human locomotion

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of vestibulo-spinal dri ve on the performance of various locomotor-like movements. The extent of bo dy rotation was assessed during walking (1 Hz and 2 Hz), running and hoppin g in place after vestibular stimulation (10 body rotations; 0.5 Hz). Compar ed to the controls, body rotations with eyes closed were larger during hopp ing than while running and smallest during walking independent of stepping frequency. A close correlation existed between the absolute duration of sta nce phase of the two legs and the rotation of the body. It is suggested tha t the amount of proprioceptive feedback from the legs determines the influe nce of vestibulo-spinal input on body movement, NeuroReport 12:2743-2746 (C ) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.