Motor and Neurophysiological Changes After Ischemic Conditioning in Healthy and Individuals With Stroke

Young Healthy Adults: Inclusion Criteria: 18 - 35 years of age No history of neurological impairment Exclusion Criteria: Pre-existing neurological condition Contraindications to TMS or IC Individuals with Stroke: Inclusion Criteria: Single, monohemispheric stroke > 3 months since onset Residual hemiparetic gait deficits (e.g., abnormal gait pattern) Able to walk on the treadmill or cycle on the recumbent stepper Exclusion Criteria: Lesions affecting the brainstem or cerebellum Severe osteoporosis Other neurological disorders that may interfere with motor function Presence of uncontrolled medical conditions (I.e., uncontrolled hypertension, untreated cardiac/ heart disease, or untreated pulmonary/ lung disease) Diagnosis of severe renal (kidney) or hepatic (liver) disease Unhealed decubiti, persistent infections that may interfere with ability to perform test procedures Failure to pass the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire Significant cognitive or communication impairment which could impede the understanding of the purpose of study procedures Contraindications to TMS or IC TMS General Exclusion Criteria: 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 IC General Exclusion Criteria: Deep vein thrombosis Peripheral arterial grafts in the lower extremity Blood clots in the leg, or any condition in which compression of the thigh or short-term blood flow restriction is contraindicated (e.g., open wounds in the leg) Presence of uncontrolled hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, or hematological disease