Propioception

Thanks to propioception, often called the "sixth sense," we instinctively know where our arms, legs, or heads are, even with our eyes closed. This perception plays a fundamental role in our balance, coordination and movement.

Proprioception: a little-known but essential meaning

Unlike the five classical senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell), proprioception works unconsciously and continuously. It:

• to coordinate our movements with precision,
• maintain our posture and balance,
• to adapt our actions to the environment,
• to interact with our bodies in a fluid and automatic way.

Without proprioception, the simplest actions — walking, writing, grabbing an object — become extremely difficult, if not impossible.

How does proprioception work?

Proprioception relies on a complex network of sensors located in different parts of the body:

• muscles, which provide information on contraction and elongation,
• tendons, which detect muscle tension,
• joints, which provide information on the position and movement of body segments.

These sensors transmit their signals to the central nervous system, particularly the spinal cord, cerebellum, and sensory-motor areas of the brain, which continuously integrate and adjust movements.

Proprioception and the brain: a constant dialogue

Proprioception is a perfect example of how the brain and body communicate continuously. The brain analyzes proprioceptive data in real time, compares it to the intent of the movement, and instantly adjusts posture or trajectory.

The cerebellum plays a central role in this regulation. It coordinates sensory and motor information to maintain balance and ensure fluid movements. Sensory and motor cortical areas are involved in the planning and execution of gestures.

When proprioception is altered

Proprioception disorders may occur as a result of:

• neurological damage (stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury…),
• neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's disease, cerebellar ataxia, etc.);
• muscular or joint injuries,
• or in persons with motor development disorders.

These disturbances can lead to loss of coordination, postural instability, or a feeling of strangeness in the body.

At Paris Brain Institute, several teams are studying the impact of these proprioceptive disorders on daily life and developing neuromotor rehabilitation strategies.

Proprioception as a Growing Field of Research

At Paris Brain Institute, research on proprioception is part of a broader approach to understanding motor control, body perception, and brain plasticity. Our researchers use advanced technologies (brain imaging, brain-machine interfaces, biomechanical sensors, etc.) to explore:

• neural circuits involved in proprioception,
• impairment in neurological diseases,
• and ways to stimulate them to promote motor recovery.