The role of proprioception in the consolidation of ipsilateral 1Hz-rTMS effects on motor performance

Objectives: The aim of the present work is to investigate whether the longlasting effect of the ipsilateral primary motor cortex (ipsiM1) 1 Hz-repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (1 Hz-rTMS) on motor performance can be modulated by subsequent engagement of the sensorimotor system through muscle vibration. Methods: Twenty-one subjects were divided into three groups: MOVEMENT group performed the 1 min-finger opposition task before (PRE), immediately after (POST0), 15 min (POST15) and 30 min after (POST30) the 1 Hz-rTMS on ipsiM1; the REST and VIBRATION groups performed the finger opposition task only at PRE and POST30. However, in the VIBRATION group at POST0 and POST15 the right flexor carpi radialis (FCR) was vibrated for 1 min. Motor performance was recorded at PRE and POST30. Results: The MOVEMENT and VIBRATION groups showed at POST30 similar and significant changes in motor performance. A decrease in movement time and an increase in touch duration with no change in the ability to follow the metronome cue were observed. Motor performance did not change in the REST group at POST30. Conclusions: These findings suggest that vibration of FCR can interact with rTMS cortical effects in a similar way to the voluntary movement. Significance: Muscle vibration might be used in a rehabilitative setting to consolidate rTMS effects in patients with sensory pathways preserved. (C) 2011 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.