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Abstract. Human haptic sensing is not fixed, but subject to major alterations through perceptual learning processes. We describe a new stimulation protocol that allows to improve haptic sensing in humans in a highly systemic way. The so-called coactivation protocol is based upon temporal constraints of Hebbian learning where simultaneity plays a key role for the induction of plastic changes. We summarize recent experiments showing that coactivation alters haptic sensing in parallel to major cortical reorganization in somatosensory cortex. We describe first results where coactivation has been utilized for therapeutical purposes in impaired human populations, and we sketch the next steps to be able to apply the concept of coactivation on a regular and reliable basis as a therapeutical tool to selectively interfere with impaired haptic sensing.
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