Kinesthesia

Kinesthesia or kinaesthesia is a term that is often used interchangeably with proprioception. Some users differentiate the kinesthetic sense from proprioception by excluding the sense of equilibrium or balance from kinesthesia. An individual's awareness of proprioception and kinesthesia occurs in the cerebral cortex, the brain's outer layer of neural tissue.

Definition

Kinesthesia is the sense that detects bodily position, weight, or movement of the muscles, tendons, and joints. The receptors that sense movement are located in the muscles, tendons, and joints. The information from these receptors, in combination with the sense of balance, is then used to achieve a sense of bodily position.

Function

Kinesthesia allows individuals to perform everyday activities without consciously thinking about the movements involved. This sense is also what allows individuals to touch their nose with their eyes closed, or to walk in the dark without losing balance.

Role in Motor Control

Kinesthesia plays a crucial role in motor control as it provides feedback to the brain about the force, direction, and speed of movement. This feedback allows for the adjustment and fine-tuning of motor commands, which is essential for coordinated movement.

Disorders

Disorders of kinesthesia can occur due to damage to the peripheral nervous system (such as in peripheral neuropathy) or the central nervous system (such as in stroke or Parkinson's disease). These disorders can lead to a loss of awareness of body position and movement, resulting in a lack of coordination and balance.

See Also

• Proprioception
• Motor control
• Peripheral nervous system
• Central nervous system

Kinesthesia Resources
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