Cortical Enhancement of Posture, Movement Planning, and Execution of Upright Reaching Following Stroke

Inclusion criteria

for stroke:

• Unilateral cortical or white matter subcortical stroke
• Age 40 yrs and older
• ≥ 6 months post ischemic stroke or ≥ 12 months post hemorrhagic stroke
• Residual arm hemiparesis as indicated by Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity score between 20-65
• Having the ability to perform reaching movements with the paretic arm in standing without an assistive device.

Exclusion criteria

for stroke:

• Stroke involving bilateral hemisphere, brainstem or cerebellum
• Any medical condition precluding participation in testing
• Other health conditions affecting balance and upper extremity movement function beyond the effects of stroke.

Inclusion criteria

for healthy controls:

• Age-matched to the stroke subjects
• Without a history of stroke or any known neurological conditions
• Having the cognitive ability to follow two-step commands and give informed consent

Exclusion criteria

for healthy controls:

• Any medical condition precluding participation in testing
• Other health conditions affecting balance and upper extremity movement function beyond the effects of stroke.

Participants were also excluded if they did not meet the TMS safety criterion including having implantable medical devices, history of seizures, taking medications to reduce anxiety, sedatives, and seizure, and pregnancy.