Event-Related Desynchronization of EEG Sensorimotor Rhythms in Hemiparesis Post-Stroke Patients

Motor impairment is one of the most prevalent consequences of a stroke, necessitating the implementation of efficacious diagnostic and rehabilitative techniques. An evaluation of alterations in sensorimotor cortical activity during the processes of movement preparation and execution can provide valuable insights into the state of motor circuits following a stroke and the potential for recovery. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the spatiotemporal characteristics of event-related desynchronization (ERD) of sensorimotor EEG rhythms in patients with hemiparesis following a stroke, during movements with the paretic and healthy hands. A total of 19 patients with hemiparesis following a stroke participated in the study. An EEG was recorded while the subject performed a visual-motor task. The analysis focused on the event-related desynchronization in the alpha (6–15 Hz) and beta (15–30 Hz) bands. An asymmetry in the ERD was observed, with a predominant response in the intact hemisphere, regardless of the hand performing the movement. The magnitude of the ERD in the affected hemisphere demonstrated a correlation with the Fugl-Meyer score. Furthermore, a notable correlation was identified between the magnitude of beta-ERD in the affected hemisphere during movements of the healthy limb and the degree of motor function recovery. The results demonstrate the utility of ERD pattern assessment for diagnosing the state of sensorimotor networks after stroke. The detection of a correlation between the magnitude of ERD during movements of the healthy arm and the assessment of sensorimotor functions of the patient expands the possibilities of using EEG to assess patients even with complete absence of movements in the paretic limb.