Learning motor control in the upright position: a mechanical engineering approach

Motor control problems that result from damage to the central nervous syste m can make it difficult to learn functional activities. Although several th erapeutic approaches attempt to address such problems there is little evide nce of their efficacy. Targeted Training is a new approach, based on a biom echanical analysis of the problem, which usually relies on specifically des igned equipment. This paper describes the underlying theory, the developmen t of functional specifications, the translation of these specifications int o an engineering design and the clinical results of applying the equipment. The promotion of head and trunk control provides an example of the process .