Review of the Afferent Neural System of the Knee and Its Contribution to Motor Learning

Dean Currier, Arthur J. Nitz, David N. M. Caborn, John A. Nyland

Understanding the afferent neural system of the knee is considered to be vital to rehabilitation planning. An intricate relationship exists involving the afferent neural receptors in the inert and contractile tissues of the knee. Traditional rehabilitation strategies may not exploit this extensive afferent neural system. Closed kinetic chain functional training (CKCFT) may provide a method for more effectively rehabilitating an injured or reconstructed knee. The rationale for CKCFT has traditionally focused on mechanical aspects. Sensorimotor integration through motor learning is believed to be an important component of CKCFT. The purposes of this review are to discuss: 1) the afferent neural system of the knee with emphasis on the mechanoreceptors, 2) the influence of the afferent neural system of the knee on motor learning, and 3) how CKCFT uses the afferent neural system of the knee and motor learning during knee rehabilitation. This review reinforces the use of CKCFT in knee rehabilitation plans.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 1994;19(1):2-11.

Key Words: articular neurology, motor learning, knee rehabilitation

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