Final Paper

Abstract - The long-term goal of this research is to improve neuromodulatory strategies for restoring motor function in individuals with spinal cord injuries, strokes, and other neurological conditions. These conditions affect millions of individuals worldwide, often leading to significant motor dysfunction and reduced quality of life. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) is a non-invasive technique that activates afferent fibers and can evoke motor responses. Prior work has shown that tSCS can be used to improve motor function in the arms, hands, legs, and trunk of people with these conditions. This study explores the effects of age on posterior root muscle (PRM) reflex excitability. Analysis of the electromyography (EMG) data from the soleus muscle revealed a weak positive correlation between age and stimulation threshold with a low predictive value for age on thresholds. Large variation in stimulation thresholds was also evident within age groups. However, more data is needed in higher age groups to establish linear correlation or alternate regression models. The work in this paper provides insight into understanding one of the contributing factors of excitability in the PRM reflex. This insight may be useful in designing improved neuromodulatory strategies for improving motor function in people with SCI, strokes, or other neurological conditions. 


Full Paper

Charlie_Lambert_Final_Report.pdf