Overview
This research study aims to understand the relationship between brain stimulation and leg skill learning in both healthy adults and persons with chronic stroke.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age between 21 and 90 years
- Medical history of a unilateral stroke occurring ≥ 6 months prior to enrollment
- MRI or CT evidence from the imaging report shown that the stroke involves the corticospinal tract
- Hemiparesis involving the lower extremity (Fulg-Meyer LE motor test)
- No passive range of motion limitation in bilateral hips and knees
- Limitation of ankle passive range of motion to 10 degrees of dorsiflexion or less
- Visual acuity can be corrected by glasses or contact lens to 20/20
- Able to walk independently with/without assistant devices for 10 meters
- Able to maintain standing position without any assistance > 30 sec (Short Physical Performance Battery)
- Evaluation of cognitive status: Mini-mental status examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24
Exclusion Criteria:
- Pregnant women
- MRI or CT evidence of involvement of the basal ganglia or cerebellum, evidence of multiple lesions, or evidence of any other brain damage or malignant neoplasm or tumors
- Have any metal implants, cardiac pacemakers, or history of seizures
- Ongoing orthopedic or other neuromuscular disorders that will restrict exercise training
- Any vestibular dysfunction or unstable angina
- Significant cognitive deficits (inability to follow a 2-step command) or severe receptive or global aphasia*