A pilot study on simultaneous stimulation of the primary motor cortex and supplementary motor area using gait-synchronized rhythmic brain stimulation to improve gait variability in post-stroke hemiparetic patients.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Gait impairment is a common and disabling consequence of stroke. While walking speed is a key indicator of recovery, gait variability is closely associated with fall risk and long-term functional decline. Previous studies have suggested that functional interaction between the supplementary motor area (SMA) and primary motor cortex (M1) plays a key role in post-stroke gait control. Rather than stimulating these regions independently, simultaneous activation of the SMA-critical for rhythm modulation and motor planning-and gait-synchronized stimulation of the M1-essential for motor execution-may offer enhanced benefits for gait stability.

Objective

To assess the feasibility, safety, and preliminary effects of a combined brain stimulation intervention targeting the

SUBMITTER: Yamashita K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12484017 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature