Generation of Kinesthetic Illusion and Tonic Vibration Reflex Response in Trunk Flexion and Extension Motion with Mechanical Vibration Stimulation

Mechanical vibration stimulation to muscles influences human motion through the phenomena of kinesthetic illusion (KI) and tonic vibration reflex (TVR). On the other hand, some people suffer from disability of their motor functions. Trunk flexion and extension are essential movements involved in many daily activities and often play a critical role in coordinating with limb motions. The effects of vibration stimulation on trunk muscles involved in flexion and extension might be applicable for the rehabilitation of the people suffer from disability of their motor functions. This research applies mechanical vibration stimulation to the trunk muscles for the aim of rehabilitation, measuring the resultant KI and TVR in the motion of trunk flexion and extension, comparing the outcomes across different vibration frequencies.