Motor Behavior and Motor Control Research

Motor Behavior and Motor Control research in the Division includes the following laboratory groups:

Motor Behavior and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory (MBNL)
Research Focus: Discovering the brain-behavior relationships that are essential for the learning and execution of skilled movement behaviors; developing new methods for treatment of individuals with brain disorders; assessing the efficacy and effectiveness of standardized treatment approaches.

Computational Neuro-Rehabilitation and Learning Laboratory (CNRL)
Research focus: Developing computational neural models of motor skill learning and motivation; studying neuromodulation in motor learning and motivation; developing learning- and motivation-based adaptive practice schedules to enhance motor learning after stroke

Neuroplasticity and Imaging Lab (NAIL)
Research Focus: exploring central mechanisms underlying motor skill learning and motor control in non-disabled and brain injured individuals using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS); investigating physiological changes and neuroplasticity related to motor skill learning and rehabilitation; developing effective rehabilitation programs based on evidence of activity-dependent neuroplasticity.

Clinical Electrophysiology Laboratory (CEL)
Research Focus: Basic studies of the effects of muscle stimulation as well as the optimal parameters for stimulation; clinical studies of the efficacy of different types of stimulators in selected pathological conditions.

Stroke Rehabilitation in China
Research Focus:Characterizing the nature and outcomes of acute stroke in China where Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the standard of care; demonstrating the efficacy of TCM compared with the integration of TCM and Western neurorehabilitation for improving functional outcomes post-stroke.