PManalyzer: A Software Facilitating the Study of Sensorimotor Control of Whole-Body Movements.

Motion analysis is used to study the functionality or dysfunctionality of the neuromuscular system, as human movements are the direct outcome of neuromuscular control. However, motion analysis often relies on measures that quantify simplified aspects of a motion, such as specific joint angles, despite the well-known complexity of segment interactions. In contrast, analyzing whole-body movement patterns may offer a new understanding of movement coordination and movement performance.

Age Effects in Postural Control Analyzed via a Principal Component Analysis of Kinematic Data and Interpreted in Relation to Predictions of the Optimal Feedback Control Theory.

Optimal feedback control theory suggests that control of movement is focused on movement dimensions that are important for the task's success. The current study tested the hypotheses that age effects would emerge in the control of only specific movement components and that these components would be linked to the task relevance. Fifty healthy volunteers, 25 young and 25 older adults, performed a 80s-tandem stance while their postural movements were recorded using a standard motion capture system.