The Effects of Remote Stochastic Resonance Stimulation on the Somatosensory Functions of the Foot

Abstract

[Purpose] This study explored the impact of remote stochastic resonance (SR) stimulation on the somatosensory functions of the feet. [Participants and Methods] Twenty-six healthy young adults were subjected to SR stimulation at the tarsal tunnel, anteriorly, posteriorly, and circumferentially, with intensities of 0.6T and 0.8T. The sensory thresholds of tactile pressure, two-point discrimination, vibration, and joint position sense were measured on the plantar aspect of the big toe and the heel. [Results] Significant improvements in sensitivity were observed in tactile pressure at the tarsal tunnel with 0.6T stimulation, and in vibration at all sites with 0.8T stimulation. A significant improvement in joint position sense was also noted with 0.6T stimulation at the tarsal tunnel. However, no effect of SR stimulation was observed on two-point discrimination. [Conclusion] The application of remote SR stimulation was found to improve the sensitivity of somatosensory functions other than two-point discrimination, but the effective stimulation conditions varied depending on the sensory modality.