The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between motor evoked potentials (MEPs) or somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) and the recovery of function in acute or subacute stroke patients.

Twenty one hemiplegic stroke patients were examined with MEPs of extensor carpi radialis, abductor pollicis brevis, tibialis anterior and abductor hallucis and SSEPs of median and tibial nerves. A separate score was defined for upper and lower extremities within the Fugl-Meyer assessment and Korean-modified Barthel index. Motor performances were evaluated simultaneously with the evoked potential assessments and at 2 weeks after the first examination.

The second motor function of upper extremity was significantly higher in patients with the presence of MEP or SSEP (p<0.05). The improvement of self care was correlated with the responsiveness in SSEP. Motor function of lower extremity was significantly associated with the responsiveness in MEP or SSEP (p>0.05). MEP in tibialis anterior or tibial SSEP were correlated with the mobility.

MEP in tibialis anterior is useful in predicting in mobility after stroke. SSEP is predictive for activities in daily living after stroke.