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Variability in cross-modal proprioceptive judgements impairs upper-limb function across the lifespan

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This is the first study to estimate the effect of proprioception on upper-limb function across the lifespan within an explicitly defined causal framework. Specifically, we investigated whether deficits in low-level proprioceptive judgements (made within a single frame of reference) or high-level proprioceptive judgements (made between frames of reference) impair upper-limb function across the lifespan. We provide novel evidence that imprecise high-level proprioceptive judgements impair an everyday upper-limb functional task, with this relationship strengthening with age.

Source: Journal of Applied Physiology

DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00013.2026

Authors: Lucy S. Robertson, Joanna Diong, Annie A. Butler, Peter Humburg, Simon C. Gandevia, Martin E. Héroux

Institutions: University of Technology Sydney, UNSW Sydney, Neuroscience Research Australia, The University of Sydney

Language: English

Topic: Motor Control and Adaptation

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council