These preliminary findings support that modulating excitatory input of the corticospinal tracts on spinal circuits may be a promising strategy in improving arm and hand functions in persons with incomplete tetraplegia. Further study is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of recovery.

Objective: To investigate sex differences and the impact of social living situation on individual Functional Independence Measure (FIM™) outcomes after stroke rehabilitation Design: A retrospective observational study utilizing Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries (N=125,548) who were discharged from inpatient rehabilitation facilities in 2013 and 2014 after a stroke. Discharge individual FIM™ score, dichotomized as ≥5 and <5, was the primary outcome measure. A two-step generalized linear mixed model was used to measure the effect of sex on each FIM™ item while controlling for many clinical and sociodemographic covariates.Results: After adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors, females had higher odds of reaching a supervision level for 14/18 FIM™ items. Males had higher odds of reaching a supervision level on 2/18 FIM™ items. Individuals who lived alone prior to their stroke had higher odds of reaching a supervision level than individuals who lived with a caregiver or with family for all FIM™ items. Conclusions: When sociodemographic and clinical factors are controlled, females are more likely to discharge from inpatient rehabilitation at a supervision level or better for most FIM™ items. Individuals who live alone prior to their stroke have higher odds of discharging at a supervision level or better.