Changes in Spinal Pathways after Stroke and Their Relation to Motor Incoordination
Author Information
Author(s): Dyer Joseph-Omer, Maupas Eric, de Andrade Melo Sibele, Bourbonnais Daniel, Fleury Jean, Forget Robert
Primary Institution: Institut de réadaptation de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
Hypothesis
This study investigates whether there are changes in the spinal facilitatory and inhibitory pathways linking knee to ankle extensors and if such changes may be related to motor deficits after stroke.
Conclusion
The study confirms that changes in transmission in heteronymous spinal pathways are related to motor deficits after stroke.
Supporting Evidence
- Significant increase in peak amplitude and duration of facilitation on the paretic side compared to the non-paretic side.
- Later strong inhibition observed in all control subjects was decreased in the stroke subjects.
- Correlation found between reflex modulation and levels of motor recovery, coordination, and spasticity.
Takeaway
After a stroke, the way nerves communicate between the knee and ankle muscles changes, which can make it harder to move properly.
Methodology
The study assessed the H reflex in stroke participants and healthy controls to evaluate spinal pathway changes.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in participant selection and the influence of medications on reflex responses.
Limitations
The study only included participants with chronic hemiparesis and may not generalize to all stroke patients.
Participant Demographics
15 stroke individuals (6 females, 9 males) and 15 healthy individuals (8 females, 7 males) with similar age.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.009
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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