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Assessment of motor neuron excitability in parkinsonian rigidity by the F wave

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Summary

F-wave responses from abductor pollicis brevis muscle occurred more frequently, with a larger amplitude and longer duration in rigid parkinsonian patients than in age-matched normal controls. F-wave potentiation during voluntary contraction was impaired in parkinsonian patients. These findings suggest that spinal motor neuron excitability is enhanced in rigidity. F-wave amplitude was significantly correlated to the clinical evaluation of motor disability, so that the F wave may be regarded as a useful approach to quantitative evaluation of rigidity.

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Abbruzzese, G., Vische, M., Ratto, S. et al. Assessment of motor neuron excitability in parkinsonian rigidity by the F wave. J Neurol 232, 246–249 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00313788

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00313788

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