Motor inhibition is a central topic in the field of motor rehabilitation. This article offers a comprehensive definition of motor inhibition, its causes, symptoms, and the most appropriate treatment methods.
What is motor inhibition?
Motor inhibition is a mechanism implemented by the brain that allows for the proper adjustment of motor skills. In this sense, it should not be considered a dysfunctional mechanism, unless it becomes excessive: it then becomes pathological.
Several types of motor inhibition can be identified. The first type is referred to as distal (or peripheral) inhibition. According to some authors, this is based on a modification of the information provided by the receptors in the joint and muscle, which then prevents the supraspinal pathways from fully activating the muscle (1). In other words, the patient may develop dysfunctional motor patterns. This type of inhibition is induced by decreased receptor activation, which itself can have various causes, including:
- a synovial effusion;
- hemarthrosis;
- inflammation;
- stiffness;
- damage to peripheral joints.
In the second scenario, we speak of proximal inhibition (or central inhibition): here, the blockage occurs at the level of the brain itself, more precisely at the level of the motor cortex and descending pathways, where the basal ganglia (or central gray nuclei) play a role in the initiation of a movement.
Indeed, these muscles are what authorize or inhibit the initiation of a voluntary movement. They also play an important role in the automaticity of movements (2). The appearance of this type of inhibition can notably be induced by the prolonged inactivation of a muscle due to prolonged immobilization (surgery, trauma). Furthermore, this type of motor inhibition can impact both the quality of muscle contraction and the timing of the muscle contractions necessary for the proper execution of movements.
What impact can motor inhibition have?
Motor inhibition can significantly impair motor skills by disrupting muscle contraction and movement coordination. Symptoms include abnormal muscle contractions, joint discomfort and a dysfunctional motor pattern, affecting the patient's rehabilitation.
Motor inhibition is often observed in patients following trauma, such as an ankle sprain, or surgery, such as that performed after a cruciate ligament rupture. Motor dysfunctions due to excessive muscle inhibition can lead to delays or even complete blockages in rehabilitation, thus requiring specific and effective management.
How to diagnose motor inhibition?
The diagnosis of motor inhibition is based on the observation of various symptoms, which may include:
- muscle atrophy and a decrease in MVC (Maximum Voluntary Contraction);
- a problem with the stability of a joint and its function;
- an abnormal delay in the progress of rehabilitation;
- a disruption of the motor contraction pattern;
- a persistent, uncomfortable pain.
In order to identify these motor inhibitions, it is essential to implement specific tests on the different muscle chains, as proposed in our training day dedicated to the detection of motor inhibitions.
What treatments are available for motor inhibition?
Motor inhibition can be treated in various ways. Several books highlight certain methods, including:
- the use of cryotherapy, in order to temporarily reduce motor inhibition (4);
- electrostimulation (however, the benefits of this method only last 30 minutes) (5).
These three techniques are considered part of the distal approach, which is most often used in the management of motor inhibitions.
- biofeedback (6), which allows improvements in motor power and functional recovery as well as better control of muscle action by the patient;
- The Allyane method is based on the use of proprioceptive sensations associated with motor imagery work, itself combined with the use of low-frequency sounds.
These last two techniques, meanwhile, refer to the proximal approach, which aims to defuse a non-functional movement and reprogram an appropriate motor function. Furthermore, this approach differs from the previous one in that it involves the patient in their treatment. Support from a physiotherapist specializing in neuromotor rehabilitation is often recommended.
The Allyane method in the treatment of motor inhibition
The Allyane neuromotor reprogramming method is a solution that allows for the reintroduction of a patient's motor function. It is designed to facilitate the rehabilitation, modification, or acquisition of a movement quickly and sustainably. To achieve this, the patient will work on motor imagery and listening to low-frequency sounds in order to overcome motor inhibitions and defuse a non-functional movement. low-frequency sounds used in Allyane method are emitted by a patented medical device and will place the patient in a state of reduced alertness.
Would you like to learn more about the Allyane method for treating motor inhibitions? Don't hesitate to contact us!
FAQ
Can motor inhibition disappear with rehabilitation?
Thanks to techniques and integrated care solutions within a care pathway, such as neuromotor reprogramming, it is possible initially to identify and address motor inhibition in order to restore normal muscle function.
What are the most common symptoms of prolonged motor inhibition?
Symptoms include persistent pain, muscle weakness, and delays or even blockages in rehabilitation, which can impact the care pathway following injury, immobilization, or surgery.
What are the most effective treatments for motor disorders caused by motor inhibition?
Treatments vary depending on the cause, but techniques such as cryotherapy and neuromotor reprogramming like the Allyane method have proven effective.
Sources: (1) Hurley MV, Jones DW, Newham DJ Arthrogenic quadriceps inhibition and rehabilitation of patients with extensive traumatic knee injuries. Clin Sci (Lond) 1994;86(3):305–310. (2) Kawaï R., Markman T., Roddar R., Olveczky BP. Motor cortex is required for learning but not for executing a motor skill.Neuron. 2015 May 6;86(3):800-12. doi: 10.1016/ j.neuron.2015.03.024. (3) Nov 2014 Blackburn JT1, Pamukoff DN2, Sakr M3, Vaughan AJ4, Berkoff DJ 5 (4) Dec 2010 Rice DA 1, McNair PJ (8) Jan 2009 Rice D 1, McNair PJ, Dalbeth N. (5) Oct 2017 Rafsanjani H1, Khademi-Kalantari K2, Rezasoltani A1, Naimi SS1, Ghasemi M1, Jaberzadeh S3 (6) 2013, Gabler C1, Kitzman PH2, Mattacola CG3