Theta-burst stimulation over primary somatosensory cortex modulates the tactile acuity of the tongue

The current study examines the effects of different types of theta-burst stimulation (TBS) [continuous TBS (cTBS), intermittent TBS (iTBS), sham] over the tongue representation of left primary somatosensory cortex (S1). Results show that the spatial acuity of the tongue can be impaired or improved by cTBS or iTBS, respectively. Directly modifying somatosensation in the orofacial system can benefit clinical populations with abnormal tactile acuity, advance our understanding of sensory systems in speech production, and improve speech motor learning and rehabilitation.