Long-term retention of a peripherally induced flexor reflex alteration in rats

The long-term nature of peripherally induced spinal fixation was examined in the present study. Sixty-three anesthetized rats received 45-90 min of hindlimb stimulation. After a 24-72 h waiting period, the animals were given a midthoracic spinal section and hindlimb asymmetry was assessed. Our results indicate that a compensatory mechanism was activated after stimulation to correct the postural imbalance. Long-lasting effects of stimulation were manifested, however, when the compensatory influence was eliminated by spinal section.