Movement variability—once dismissed as mere “noise”—is now recognized as a fundamental feature of neuromotor control, reflecting the dynamic interplay between cortical commands, subcortical modulatory networks, and peripheral feedback. Controlled fluctuations in kinematic, kinetic, and neural signals underpin adaptability, skill acquisition, and resilience to perturbations. This collection examines how movement variability emerges from neural circuit architecture and informs both healthy function and compensatory strategies after injury.

We welcome theoretical contributions that leverage frameworks such as dynamical systems theory, optimal feedback control, and the concepts of redundancy and degeneracy in motor networks. Experimental studies applying nonlinear metrics (e.g., entropy, fractal dynamics, Lyapunov exponents) or network analyses (electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography (EEG/MEG) connectivity, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)-based graph theory) to quantify complexity at multiple levels of the sensorimotor hierarchy are encouraged. This collection also highlights neurophysiological investigations into variability biomarkers for neurological disorders. Submissions may explore how altered variability profiles signal early Parkinson’s disease, predict fall risk in elderly and post-stroke cohorts, or distinguish cerebellar ataxia subtypes. Integrative studies combining motion capture, inertial measurement units, and EMG coherence analyses to map the neural origins of variability are especially valued.

Translational research is sought on neurorehabilitation strategies that harness movement variability to drive plasticity. We invite reports on variable-practice training, robotic perturbation protocols, and virtual/augmented reality interventions that use controlled unpredictability to optimize motor relearning. Contributions demonstrating how individualized variability metrics can guide therapy dosing and monitor recovery will bridge bench to bedside.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Theoretical Frameworks for Movement Variability: The application of dynamical systems theory—where variability reflects the exploration of stable attractor states—stochastic optimal control—where trial-to-trial fluctuations balance exploration and exploitation—and redundancy or degeneracy in the motor system—where multiple solutions create flexible movement patterns—shows how the nervous system actively modulates variability to enhance performance and learning.

• Neurophysiological Evidence: EEG /MEG, fMRI, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Electromyography (EMG) synergy analyses linking variability to network dynamics and synaptic plasticity.

• Biomechanical and Electrophysiological Metrics of Variability: Nonlinear measures—such as sample entropy for gait cycle irregularity, fractal dimension for scale-invariant joint-angle patterns, and Lyapunov exponents for postural stability—are used to assess movement variability in posture, walking, and upper-limb tasks.

• Movement Disorders and Diagnostics: Variability signatures in Parkinson’s disease, stroke, cerebral palsy, and ataxia—and their use in early detection and monitoring.

• Rehabilitation Strategies: Variable-practice protocols, error-augmentation, robotic perturbations, and virtual-reality paradigms designed to harness variability for neuroplasticity and functional recovery.

By uniting neuroscientists, neurologists, biomechanists, and rehabilitation specialists, this collection aims to translate foundational insights into patient-centered interventions that optimize motor function, prevent falls, and accelerate recovery across neurological populations.

Keywords: movement variability, motor control, biomechanics, adaptability, performance, rehabilitation, neurophysiology, motor learning, complexity.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain syndromes present a major clinical challenge due to the complex interplay among neuromuscular, fascial, and central mechanisms. Recent advances in neuroscientific imaging, neuroimmune modulation, and targeted interventions are yielding new insights into the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of MSK disorders. This collection investigates neuromuscular imaging, mechanistic biomarkers, and advanced interventional strategies for MSK pain, neuropathy, and central sensitization, with a focus on neuromodulation, muscle-fascia-neural interactions, microbiome research, and predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM) approaches.

The collection will highlight interventional and mechanobiology-based therapies, including ultrasound-guided dry needling, regenerative medicine approaches, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), focused ultrasound stimulation, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT). These therapies play a crucial role in neuromodulation, pain modulation, tissue regeneration, and neuroplasticity-driven rehabilitation. A key focus is the integration of ultrasound-based diagnostics, regenerative therapies, and microbiome research to address both chronic pain syndromes and combat injury rehabilitation.

Key Topics Include:

• Neuromuscular and ultrasound imaging for neuroscientific pain assessment and targeted interventions

• Neuroimmune mechanisms underlying chronic MSK pain, neuroinflammation, and neuroplasticity

• Mechanistic biomarkers for pain diagnostics, neuroplasticity, and monitoring rehabilitation outcomes

• Muscle-fascia-neural interactions in neuromodulation, pain processing, and mechanotransduction

• Dry needling, neuromodulation, ESWT, and regenerative therapies for neural circuit repair and pain modulation

• Microbiome and probiotics as emerging factors in neuroimmune interactions and central sensitization

• Predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM) approaches in neuroscientific pain management

• Innovative strategies for combat injury rehabilitation with a focus on neurosensory and motor recovery

This multidisciplinary collection bridges basic neuroscience, imaging technologies, and interventional pain medicine, offering clinically applicable strategies for improved MSK pain management.

Keywords: Myofascial pain, Neuropathy, Central sensitization, Ultrasound imaging, Biomarkers, Dry needling, Neuromodulation, Rehabilitation, Pain therapy, Predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM), Microbiome & probiotics in pain modulation, Combat injury rehabilitation