Michel LACOUR, PhD in Neurosciences and Master in Psychology, works at the Aix-Marseille University, France. One major characteristic of Michel Lacour’s profile is his internationally recognized expertise in both Basic Research and Clinical Investigations.

His well-known works in animal models are focused on CNS plasticity and recovery mechanisms after vestibular lesions. He proposed a conceptual model based on the re-expression of developmental mechanisms in the vestibular nuclei and related nervous structures, responsible for full recovery of the static vestibular functions. Michel was the first to demonstrate that post-lesion plasticity depended on both vestibular etiology and post-lesion sensorimotor activity. He clearly demonstrated that optimal recovery of the vestibular functions was better with active and early training. Recovery of the dynamic vestibular functions was explained by a second heuristic model based on different sensory substitution processes and different behavioral strategies elaborated by the whole brain, that differed from one patient to another (vicarious idiosyncratic mechanisms).

Michel Lacour has developed strong collaborations with ENTs and Physiotherapists to investigate posture control, gaze stability and cognitive functions in patients with unilateral and bilateral vestibular loss. His translational approach investigated the efficacy of different rehabilitation therapies applied at various time periods after symptoms onset. He highlighted the crucial role of early rehab and degree of vestibular loss in vestibular function recovery, he explained and improved existing rehabilitation programs by incorporation of new concepts (critical period: earlier is better), and he developed new paradigms and tools for rehab (dual task, dynamic subjective visual vertical, translational platform).

Michel Lacour has also strong involvement in pharmacological researches (testing of different molecules to treat vertigo and dizziness) and transfer of advanced technology, including new devices (dynamic platform: Synapsys) and new softwares (PosturoPro, Framiral) to investigate posture and balance recovery.

Michel Lacour is the author of 250 publications in international referred journals and has more than 100 Masterclasses in Europe, Russia, Asia, Middle East, North Africa, and USA. He provides his expert opinion for many international journals and scientific societies, and is unpaid consultant to several companies (pharmacology, physiotherapy).