I’m glad to announce that my first first‑author paper from my dissertation, examining the behavioural and neural mechanisms of somatosensory stimulation and prism adaptation, has been published in Behavioural Brain Research.
In this study, we investigated how combining somatosensory stimulation with prism adaptation influences sensorimotor aftereffects and corticomotor excitability in healthy adults. We found that pairing stimulation with prism adaptation enhanced neurophysiological markers of plasticity while maintaining robust behavioural aftereffects. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of sensorimotor integration and its potential to inform rehabilitation strategies.
Following a stroke, restoring the brain’s ability to control and coordinate limb movements is a primary challenge in neurorehabilitation. This study investigated a novel therapeutic approach: combining prism adaptation therapy (a visual training technique that adjusts spatial awareness) with neuromuscular electrical stimulation to evaluate its impact on cortical excitability—the brain’s responsiveness in motor pathways controlling both upper and lower limbs.
The research demonstrated that while visual prism training independently drives positive behavioral shifts, pairing it with targeted electrical stimulation significantly amplifies brain neuroplasticity. This combination successfully enhances neural responses in the specific cortical areas responsible for limb movement, shifting brain activity in the exact direction required to reinforce motor learning and accelerate physical recovery.
Ultimately, the study proves that neuromuscular electrical stimulation acts as a powerful catalyst, maximizing the neural benefits of visual adaptation therapy. By mapping out how these combined therapies interact to stimulate the brain, this research provides a crucial framework for designing more effective, evidence-based rehabilitation protocols. These insights open new doors to improving mobility, walking function, and overall long-term quality of life for stroke survivors.
Special thanks to our senior authors, Trisha Kesar, PT, PhD (my advisor) and Drs. Peii Chen and Michael Borich (both on my dissertation committee), as well as all co‑authors whose valuable contributions made this work possible. (Jasmine Hope, PhD, Jacob Spencer DPT PhD, Maithri Muthukumar (my awesome undergrad mentee); Taylor Leone and Vyoma Parikh DPT PhD.
Click here to view the full paper: https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1n9hZbrwfUGlN
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