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The effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on task processing and prioritisation during dual-task gait
James G Wrightson1, Rosie Twomey, Emma Z Ross
1The Centre for Sport and Exercise Science and Medicine (SESAME), University of Brighton, Eastbourne, East Sussex, UK, J.Wrightson2@Brighton.ac.uk.
Experimental Brain Research
|March 1, 2015
Summary
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the prefrontal cortex influences dual-task gait. Anodal tDCS improved gait stability and cognitive performance, while cathodal tDCS did not.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- The prefrontal cortex is implicated in cognitive resource allocation during dual-task gait.
- The precise role of the prefrontal cortex in dual-task gait control remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the prefrontal cortex in dual-task gait using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS).
- To examine the effects of tDCS on stride time variability (STV), trunk range of motion (RoM), and cognitive task performance during dual-task gait.
- To determine if walking speed influences the effects of tDCS on dual-task gait.
Main Methods:
- Ten adults performed a serial subtraction task while walking at preferred or reduced speed.
- Participants received anodal or cathodal tDCS over the left prefrontal cortex.
- Gait parameters (STV, trunk RoM) and cognitive performance were assessed before and after tDCS.
Main Results:
- Anodal tDCS reduced STV and dual-task costs on STV, while improving cognitive performance.
- Cathodal tDCS increased STV and potentially dual-task costs on STV, without affecting cognitive performance.
- tDCS did not affect trunk RoM, and its effects were independent of walking speed.
Conclusions:
- The prefrontal cortex plays a polarity-dependent role in biasing task performance during dual-task gait.
- tDCS is a potential tool for investigating prefrontal cortex involvement in dual-task gait control.
