Abstract
There is a fundamental discord between the foundational theories underpinning motor learning and how we currently apply transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS). The former is dependent on tight coupling of events; the latter is conducted with very low temporal resolution, typically being applied for 10-20 minutes, prior to or during performance of a particular motor or cognitive task. Here we show that when short duration stimulation epochs (< 3 seconds) are yoked to movement, only the reaching movements repeatedly performed simultaneously with stimulation are selectively enhanced. We propose that mechanisms of Hebbian-like learning are potentiated within neural circuits that are active during movement and concurrently stimulated, thus driving improved adaptation.
Competing Interest Statement
The authors have declared no competing interest.