Motor coordination is the combination of
body movements created with the
kinematic (such as spatial direction) and
kinetic (force)
parameters that result in intended
actions. Motor coordination is achieved when subsequent parts of the same movement, or the movements of several
limbs or body parts are combined in a manner that is well timed, smooth, and efficient with respect to the intended goal. This involves the integration of
proprioceptive information detailing the position and movement of the musculoskeletal system with the
neural processes in the
brain and
spinal cord which control, plan, and relay motor commands. The
cerebellum plays a critical role in this neural control of movement and damage to this part of the brain or its connecting structures and pathways results in impairment of coordination, known as
ataxia.