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Published on: May 20, 2020
Bimanual isometric force control: asymmetry and coordination evidence post stroke
Neha Lodha1, Stephen A Coombes, James H Cauraugh
1Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA. lodhaneha@hhp.ufl.edu
Summary
Individuals with chronic stroke exhibit significant bimanual force deficits, showing increased asymmetry and reduced coordination between hands during visually-guided tasks. Rehabilitation should focus on improving bimanual coordination for symmetric and temporally aligned force production.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Stroke survivors often experience difficulties with coordinated movements, particularly in bimanual tasks.
- Understanding the specific nature of these bimanual deficits is crucial for effective rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of bimanual force production deficits in individuals with chronic stroke.
- To analyze force asymmetry and coordination during visually-guided isometric contractions.
Main Methods:
- Stroke survivors and controls performed isometric wrist/finger extension contractions.
- Force asymmetry was measured as the proportion of force from the impaired hand.
- Bimanual coordination was assessed using cross-correlations and time-lag analysis.
Main Results:
- The stroke group showed significantly greater force asymmetry and reduced bimanual coordination compared to controls.
- Force asymmetry remained consistent across different force levels in both groups.
- While controls improved coordination with increased force, stroke survivors did not exhibit this improvement; the less-impaired hand lagged the impaired hand.
Conclusions:
- Chronic stroke is associated with pronounced bimanual motor impairments, including increased force asymmetry and decreased inter-hand coordination.
- Separate neural control mechanisms may underlie force production and coordination following stroke.
- Rehabilitation strategies should incorporate tasks that promote symmetric and temporally coordinated bimanual force output.
