Improving Locomotor Learning With Brain Stimulation

The primary goal of this research was to assess the practicality and initial effectiveness of a motor imagery (MI) intervention combined with elements of action observation (AO), alongside active or sham transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the prefrontal cortex (PFC), on locomotor learning in healthy adults. Feasibility was determined by examining recruitment rates, participant engagement, and safety measures. The efficacy of the intervention was gauged by analyzing the time taken to complete tasks and changes in cerebral blood flow immediately after the intervention and one week later. The study was guided by three main hypotheses: (1) the intervention techniques would be well-received and safe for the participants; (2) compared to a control group, MI training would lead to better learning outcomes and retention of learning; (3) in comparison to the control and sham tDCS groups, active tDCS would result in superior learning outcomes and retention of learning.