Neuromodulation of the Cortex and Spinal Cord

Specific Aim 1: To further quantify the difference in the sensorimotor cortical activity, spinal cord activity, and corticospinal coherence of persons with CP. Overall hypotheses: The sensorimotor cortical activity, spinal cord activity, and corticospinal coherence will be uncharacteristic in persons with CP when compared with neurotypical controls. Furthermore, the extent of the alterations in the sensorimotor cortical activity, spinal cord activity, and corticospinal coherence will be tightly linked with the clinical presentations of persons with CP. Specific Aim 2: To investigate the effect of transcutaneous current stimulation applied over the cortex and/or spinal cord on the sensorimotor cortical activity, spinal cord dynamics, and corticospinal coherence. Overall hypotheses: Compared with the sham controls, those receiving the transcutaneous current stimulation will demonstrate alterations in the strength of the sensorimotor cortical activity, spinal cord activity, and corticospinal coherence. Moreover, the extent of the alterations in the sensorimotor cortical activity, spinal cord activity, and corticospinal coherence will be tightly linked with the clinical presentations of persons with CP.

Inclusion Criteria: * For Cerebral Palsy Participants: * Gross Motor Function Classification score (GMFCS) levels between I-IV * For Neurotypical Controls: * No known atypical neurodevelopment (e.g. autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, etc.) Exclusion Criteria: * For Cerebral Palsy Participants: * Pregnancy * Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, is a contraindication to participation * The presence of any ferrous metal implant, including orthodonture, which may interfere with the MEG data acquisition and/or be an MRI safety concern * No orthopedic surgery in the last 6 months or metal in their body that would preclude the use of an MRI * For Neurotypical Controls: Pregnancy * Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, is a contraindication to participation * The presence of any ferrous metal implant, including orthodonture, which may interfere with the MEG data acquisition and/or be an MRI safety concern * No orthopedic surgery in the last 6 months or metal in their body that would preclude the use of an MRI