OBJECTIVE
This study investigated the effects of a cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) on the modulation of cortical desynchronization (ERD) during isometric contractions at different force levels.
METHODS
For 8 able-bodied (AB) and 6 cervical SCI participants, the net joint moment and electroencephalographic activities were recorded during isometric contractions of the right elbow in flexion and in extension at 3 force levels, that is, during intact and altered muscle contractions for SCI participants. The mean net moment and ∼20Hz ERD from C3 electroencephalographic electrode were compared between AB and SCI participants.
RESULTS
In flexion, that is, during intact contractions for all participants, the mean net moment and the ERD increased with the required force level. In extension, that is, during altered contractions, the mean net moment increased for 3 SCI participants while it was almost zero for 3 other SCI participants. The associated ERD increased with the required force level for all participants.
CONCLUSION
The cortical desynchronization was modulated by the intent to modulate the force level rather than the actual modulation of the force production.
SIGNIFICANCE
These results provide a better understanding of the modulation of the cortical desynchronization following SCI. Potential applications could include the control of neuroprostheses.