Motor and Neurophysiological Changes After Ischemic Conditioning in Individuals With Stroke

Exclusion Criteria

• •Lesions affecting the brainstem or cerebellum
• •Other neurological disorders that may interfere with motor function
• •Unhealed decubiti, persistent infections that may interfere with ability to perform test procedures
• •Significant cognitive or communication impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE\<21)), which could impede the understanding of the purpose of procedures of the study
• •Botulinum toxin (Botox) treatments to the lower limb within the past 6 months
• •Pregnant women
• •Contraindications to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or ischemic conditioning (IC) (Listed below)
• •Previous adverse reaction to TMS
• •Skull abnormalities or fractures
• •Concussion within the last 6 months
• •Unexplained, recurring headaches
• •Implanted cardiac pacemaker
• •Metal implants in the head or face
• •History of seizures or epilepsy
• •Use of medications that could alter cortical excitability or increase risk of seizure (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, anticonvulsants)
• •Current pregnancy
• •History of thrombosis (i.e., blood clots) including venous thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• •Blood clots in the leg, or any condition in which compression of the thigh or transient ischemia is contraindicated (i.e., open wounds in the leg, bruising, nerve damage, etc.)
• •Peripheral arterial grafts in the lower extremity
• •History of uncontrolled hypertension
• •History of peripheral vascular disease or hematological disease