This book summarises and develops the current state of knowledge in the field of neuroscience as applied to human cognitive and locomotive impairment, as well as the current treatment and research strategies. Neuroscience is a fascinating discipline that explores all aspects of nerve function. Humans interact with their environment using cognitive skills related to the five senses. We all move through space thanks to our sophisticated musculoskeletal system, which is concentrated in our upper and lower limbs. Medical disciplines deal with impairments to vision, hearing, smell and taste. Neurology and neurosurgery, on the other hand, treat alterations in sensory and motor function. Modern engineering enables the partial or total replacement of lost cognitive function, either independently or in conjunction with surgical techniques that are still evolving. Based on biomechanical principles, technical developments and microsurgical refinements work together to enhance and improve reconstruction, particularly with regard to locomotion and body sensation.

The book explains how bridges are built between a better understanding of physical impairments, their medical and eventual surgical treatment, research strategies, and possible technical assistance or substitution of bodily functions. There is a strong focus on the modern interdisciplinary approach.

This work offers a comprehensive collection of information for clinicians and researchers in medicine and the natural sciences, as well as related professionals and interested readers from all backgrounds.

Jörg Bahm is a German hand surgeon who for 30 years is dedicated to functional reconstructive surgery of the upper limb. His main clinical and surgical interest is nerve surgery and brachial plexus surgery. His scientific interest concerns biomechanics of the upper limb, motion analysis, and nerve microsurgery. He as authored /edited /co-edited 4 Springer books on that topic with a particular focus on limb impairment in children.