Central activation deficits contribute to post stroke lingual weakness in a rat model.

ABSTRACT: Lingual weakness frequently occurs after stroke and is associated with deficits in speaking and swallowing. Chronic weakness after stroke has been attributed to both impaired central activation of target muscles and reduced force-generating capacity within muscles. How these factors contribute to lingual weakness is not known. We hypothesized that lingual weakness due to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) would manifest as reduced muscle force capacity and reduced muscle activation. Rats were randomized into MCAO or sham surgery groups. Maximum volitional tongue forces were quantified 8 wk after surgery. Hypoglossal nerve stimulation was used to assess maximum stimulated force, muscle twitch properties, and force-frequency response. The central activation ratio was determined by maxim

SUBMITTER: Cullins MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8262787 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature