How a stroke in the primary somatosensory cortex would affect both the anatomy and function of the thigh differently than a stroke in the primary motor cortex.

 

Answer:

As per the term's definition , the primary motor cortex is that region of the brain which generates impulses that elicit and regulate movements. The primary somatosensory cortex, on the other hand, is responsible for sensing touch, pain, temperature, and spatial recognition (position of the body in space). Hence, a stroke in the primary cortex region would result in impaired motor functions while a stroke in the primary somatosensory cortex would result in impaired sensory functions.

The effects on the pectoral girdle ( shoulder region) in case of a stroke in the primary motor cortex or the primary somatosensory cortex are discussed in the succeeding discussions below:

Stroke in the primary motor cortex would result to:

1. Impaired shoulder reach movements ( flexion and extension of the shoulder).
2. Loss of focus ( directionless movements).
3. Absence of flexor and extensor synergy ( coordinated movements).
4. Impaired kinematics ( speed )and dynamics ( force ).
5. Lack of coordination between elbow and shoulder movements.

Stroke in the primary somatosensory cortex would result to:

1. Impaired temperature sensation - extreme sensitivity to cold and delayed sensitivity to heat.
2. Impaired dynamics - use of increased force to carry even light objects.
3. Impaired proprioception ( sense of space ) - leading to a lack of movement control
4. Impaired nociception ( pain sensation ) and tactile sense (sensation to touch) - leading to numbness, pain, or burning sensations.