Book Review: Human Robotics:Neuromechanics and Motor Control

This book is valuable in teaching the broad topic of human motor control. Includes some of the following topics: an overview of the physiology of the nervous system, peripheral sensory systems, and mechanics of the muscle-tendon complex; fundamental concepts for single- and multi-joint systems; different techniques used to control multi-joint dynamical systems; optimal control and estimation theories as a framework to estimate the state of the body and plan and control human movements; and applications of how the knowledge gained from the previous chapters can be applied to neuro-rehabilitation and robotic control. The book contains many clear illustrations that make it easier to understand and remember the main elementary properties of sensory and muscle dynamics, experimental findings on motor control and learning, and theoretical concepts and models. The book does not cover the whole range of motor control, but focuses on upper limb functioning. It also does not contain exercises, which could be a valuable future addition. In summary, this book is a unique resource for students with a background in human movement sciences, kinesiology, or neurosciences, who want to learn more about theoretical concepts and models borrowed from systems and control theory.