Optimizing transcutaneous spinal stimulation: excitability of evoked spinal reflexes is dependent on electrode montage.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There is growing interest in use of transcutaneous spinal stimulation (TSS) for people with neurologic conditions both to augment volitional control (by facilitating motoneuron excitability), and to decrease spasticity (by activating inhibitory networks). Various electrode montages are used during TSS, with little understanding of how electrode position influences spinal circuit activation. We sought to identify the thoracolumbar electrode montage associated with the most robust activation of spinal circuits by comparing posterior root-muscle reflexes (PRM reflexes) elicited by 6 montages. Additionally, we assessed tolerability of the stimulation during PRM reflex testing.

Methods

Fifteen adults with intact neurological systems participated in this randomized cros

SUBMITTER: Thatcher KL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11702053 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature