Chapter 13 Neuromotor Control and Down Syndrome

Publisher Summary This chapter describes neuromotor control and Down syndrome (DS). Its neuropathology is well described and the physical characteristics are distinct. Although the effect of DS on motor control appears to parallel that observed in other similarly mentally retarded individuals, there are notable unique exceptions, particularly with respect to speed of responding. The results of the experiments indicate the involvement of both peripheral and central mechanisms in the slower reaction time observed in DS individuals. A distal-proximal pattern of movement initiation, however, suggests a complex relationship between central and peripheral mechanisms in DS individuals. In addition, the chapter also investigates whether practice improves motor performance in Down syndrome.

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