STROKE-MOBILITY INTERVENTIONS, BRAIN STIMULATION
SUMMARY
1. Literature into regaining "hemispheric balance" has advocated the use of applying high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to the ipsilesional hemisphere in order to enhance excitability in the ipsilesional and low-frequency rTMS to the contralesional hemisphere to reduce excitability[1].
2. rTMS may be an effective intervention improving gait, balance, spasticity, range of motion, activities of daily living, muscle strength and stroke severity. The literature is mixed regarding motor function and functional ambulation.
3. Similar to rTMS, tDCS is a form of non-invasive electrical stimulation that involves the application of mild electrical currents to the scalp. In contrast to TMS, tDCS does not induce action potentials but instead manipulates the resting membrane potential.
4. The literature is mixed concerning the benefit of tDCS on LL motor outcomes. Anodal tDCS improves muscle strength and may improve motor function, functional ambulation and balance. Dual tDCS may improve balance.
Reference(s)
- ↑ Fregni, F., Boggio, P. S., Valle, A. C., Rocha, R. R., Duarte, J., Ferreira, M. J., . . . Pascual-Leone, A. (2006). A sham-controlled trial of a 5-day course of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the unaffected hemisphere in stroke patients. Stroke, 37(8), 2115-2122. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16809569
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