title: Neural representations and the cortical body matrix: implications for sports medicine and future directions.
abstract: Neural representations, or neurotags, refer to the idea that networks of brain cells, distributed across multiple brain areas, work in synergy to produce outputs. The brain can be considered then, a complex array of neurotags, each influencing and being influenced by each other. The output of some neurotags act on other systems, for example, movement, or on consciousness, for example, pain. This concept of neurotags has sparked a new body of research into pain and rehabilitation. We draw on this research and the concept of a cortical body matrix-a network of representations that subserves the regulation and protection of the body and the space around it-to suggest important implications for rehabilitation of sports injury and for sports performance. Protective behaviours associated with pain have been reinterpreted in light of these conceptual models. With a particular focus on rehabilitation of the injured athlete, this review presents the theoretical underpinnings of the cortical body matrix and its application within the sporting context. Therapeutic approaches based on these ideas are discussed and the efficacy of the most tested approaches is addressed. By integrating current thought in pain and cognitive neuroscience related to sports rehabilitation, recommendations for clinical practice and future research are suggested.
authors.affiliation: Sansom Institute for Health Research and PainAdelaide, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
authors.forename: Sarah B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Wallwork
authors.affiliation: Sansom Institute for Health Research and PainAdelaide, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
authors.forename: Valeria
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Bellan
authors.affiliation: Sansom Institute for Health Research and PainAdelaide, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
authors.forename: Mark J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Catley
authors.affiliation: Sansom Institute for Health Research and PainAdelaide, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
authors.forename: G Lorimer
authors.initials: GL
authors.lastname: Moseley
mesh_terms: D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D002540:Cerebral Cortex / Q000502:physiology*; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000502:physiology*; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity / Q000502:physiology; D011364:Professional Practice / Q000639:trends; D000068958:Return to Sport / Q000502:physiology; D013178:Sports Medicine / Q000639:trends; D055698:Touch Perception / Q000502:physiology
keywords: Assessment; Exercise rehabilitation; Rehabilitation; Sporting injuries