Biomechanical and Neural Mechanisms of Post-stroke Gait Training

The study seeks to develop an understanding of how, why, and for whom fast treadmill walking (Fast) and Fast with functional electrical stimulation (FastFES) induce clinical benefits, allowing future development of cutting-edge, individually-tailored gait treatments that enhance both gait quality and gait function.

Inclusion Criteria: * at least 6 months since stroke * single cortical or subcortical ischemic stroke * able to walk 10-meters with or without assistive device * sufficient cardiovascular health and ankle stability to walk on treadmill for 2-minutes at self-selected speed without orthosis * resting heart rate 40-100 bpm Exclusion Criteria: * hemorrhagic stroke * cerebellar signs (ataxic ("drunken") gait or decreased coordination during rapid alternating hand or foot movements * score of \>1 on question 1b and \>0 on question 1c on NIH Stroke Scale * inability to communicate with investigators * musculoskeletal conditions or pain that limit walking * neglect/hemianopia, or unexplained dizziness in last 6 months * neurologic conditions or diagnoses other than stroke * lack of sensation in lower limb affected by stroke * any medical diagnosis that would hinder the participant from completing the experimental trial * diabetes not controlled by medication or causing risk for participation in exercise programs * additional exclusion criteria due to contra-indications to TMS (measurement of corticospinal excitability) are: history of seizures, metal implants in the head or face, history of recurring or severe headaches/migraine, headache within the past 24 hours, presence of skull abnormalities or fractures, hemorrhagic stroke, history of dizziness, syncope, nausea, or loss of consciousness in the past 6 months