Residual function in motor cortex contralateral to amputated hand
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 17, 2026

Compensatory Limb Use and Behavioral Assessment of Motor Skill Learning Following Sensorimotor Cortex Injury in a Mouse Model of Ischemic Stroke
Published on: July 10, 2014
Objective:
To investigate residual function of the motor cortex corresponding to the hand of the amputated arm (MCamp).
Methods:
Focal transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of MCamp was performed in 10 patients 22 to 52 years after arm amputation to inhibit tonic muscle contraction in the intact hand ipsilateral to cortex stimulation.
Results:
In all patients, onset latency, degree, and duration of this inhibition were normal.
Conclusion:
The presence of motor inhibition in the residual hand of amputees originating from the hand motor representation of MCamp indicates residual cortical motor representation of the lost hand irrespective of whether the effect is mediated by commissural or ipsilateral corticospinal connections.
Related Concept Videos
Somatosensation
Motor and Sensory Areas of the Cortex
Motor Areas
The motor areas located in the frontal lobe are central to controlling voluntary movements. This region is further subdivided into the primary motor cortex and the premotor cortex.
Somatosensory, Motor, and Association Cortex
Direct Motor Pathways
The corticospinal tract is responsible for the voluntary movement of the limbs and trunk. It originates in the cerebral cortex of the brain and descends through the cerebrum's internal capsule and the...
Indirect Motor Pathways
The vestibulospinal tract originates in the vestibular nuclei of the brainstem. The vestibular system detects changes in...
Association Areas of the Cortex
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...

