fNIRS is capable of distinguishing laterality of lower body contractions

The use of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for brain imaging during human movement continues to increase. This technology measures brain activity non-invasively using near-infrared light, is highly portable, and robust to motion artifact. However, the spatial resolution of fNIRS is lower than that of other imaging modalities. It is unclear whether fNIRS has sufficient spatial resolution to differentiate nearby areas of the cortex, such as the leg areas of the motor cortex. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine fNIRS’ ability to discern laterality of lower body contractions. Activity in the primary motor cortex was recorded in forty participants (mean = 23.4 years, SD = 4.5, female = 23, male = 17) while performing unilateral lower body contractions. Contractions were performed at 30