Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2017 · DOI: 10.1038/scsandc.2017.28 · Published: June 15, 2017
This study explores whether stimulating the brain with a small electrical current (tDCS) while doing arm exercises can improve arm and hand function in people with incomplete spinal cord injuries. Researchers used brain imaging (DTI) to see if these improvements were related to changes in the white matter of the brain, specifically in the area that controls movement (corticospinal tract). The results suggest that this combined treatment may lead to some improvement in arm and hand function, and that these improvements might be related to changes in the brain's white matter.
The study suggests that combining brain stimulation (tDCS) with repetitive arm training may be a promising approach for improving motor function in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury.
The findings provide insights into the neural changes associated with motor recovery after SCI, particularly the role of white matter integrity in the corticospinal tract.
The study highlights the importance of addressing learned non-use in rehabilitation strategies to maximize motor function recovery.