Skip to main content
Article
Theta burst repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation attenuates somatosensory evoked potentials from the lower limb
BMC Neuroscience
  • Christopher M. Zapallow, University of Waterloo
  • Michael J. Asmussen, University of Waterloo
  • David A.E. Bolton, Utah State University
  • Kevin G. H. Lee, University of Waterloo
  • Mark F. Jacobs, University of Waterloo
  • Aimee J. Nelson, University of Waterloo
Document Type
Article
Publisher
BioMed Central
Publication Date
10-31-2012
Disciplines
Abstract

Background Continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) is a form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation which has been shown to alter cortical excitability in the upper limb representation of primary somatosensory cortex (SI). However, it is unknown whether cTBS modulates cortical excitability within the lower limb representation in SI. The present study investigates the effects of cTBS over the SI lower limb representation on cortical somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex) following tibial nerve stimulation at the knee. SEPs and H-reflex were recorded before and in four time blocks up to 30 minutes following cTBS targeting the lower limb representation within SI. Results Following cTBS, the P1-N1 first cortical potential was significantly decreased at 12–16 minutes. CTBS also suppressed the P2-N2 second cortical potential for up to 30 minutes following stimulation. The H-reflex remained statistically unchanged following cTBS although there was a modest suppression observed. Conclusion We conclude that cTBS decreases cortical excitability of the lower limb representation of SI as evidenced by suppressed SEP amplitude. The duration and magnitude of the cTBS after effects are similar to those observed in upper limb studies.

Citation Information
Zapallow CM, Asmussen MJ, Bolton DAE, Lee KGH, Jacobs, MF, Nelson AJ. Theta burst repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation attenuates somatosensory evoked potentials from the lower limb. BMC Neuroscience, 2012, 13, 133