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Klerx SP, Bruijn SM, Coppieters MW, Kiers H, Twisk JWR, Pool-Goudzwaard AL. Differences in the organization of the primary motor cortex in people with and without low back pain and associations with motor control and sensory tests. Exp Brain Res 2024:10.1007/s00221-024-06844-5. [PMID: 38767666 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-024-06844-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Differences in organization of the primary motor cortex and altered trunk motor control (sensing, processing and motor output) have been reported in people with low back pain (LBP). Little is known to what extent these differences are related. We investigated differences in 1) organization of the primary motor cortex and 2) motor and sensory tests between people with and without LBP, and 3) investigated associations between the organization of the primary motor cortex and motor and sensory tests. We conducted a case-control study in people with (N=25) and without (N=25) LBP. The organization of the primary motor cortex (Center of Gravity (CoG) and Area of the cortical representation of trunk muscles) was assessed using neuronavigated transcranial magnetic stimulation, based on individual MRIs. Sensory tests (quantitative sensory testing, graphaesthesia, two-point discrimination threshold) and a motor test (spiral-tracking test) were assessed. Participants with LBP had a more lateral and lower location of the CoG and a higher temporal summation of pain. For all participants combined, better vibration test scores were associated with a more anterior, lateral, and lower CoG and a better two-point discrimination threshold was associated with a lower CoG. A small subset of variables showed significance. Although this aligns with the concept of altered organization of the primary motor cortex in LBP, there is no strong evidence of the association between altered organization of the primary motor cortex and motor and sensory test performance in LBP. Focusing on subgroup analyses regarding pain duration can be a topic for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrine P Klerx
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Research Group Lifestyle and Health, HU University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Sjoerd M Bruijn
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute of Brain and Behaviour , Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michel W Coppieters
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Brisbane and Gold Coast, Griffith University, Brisbane and Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Henri Kiers
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Research Group Lifestyle and Health, HU University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Research Centre for Digital Business and Media, HU University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos W R Twisk
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies L Pool-Goudzwaard
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- SOMT University of Physiotherapy, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
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Li X, Lu S, Ge L, Li Z, Chen R, Zu Y, Fu R, Li L, Wang C. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined with Sling Exercise Modulates the Motor Cortex in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain. Neuroscience 2024; 545:196-206. [PMID: 38518924 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
The study aims to explore the effects of combining repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with sling exercise (SE) intervention in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). This approach aims to directly stimulate brain circuits and indirectly activate trunk muscles to influence motor cortex plasticity. However, the impact of this combined intervention on motor cortex organization and clinical symptom improvement is still unclear, as well as whether it is more effective than either intervention alone. To investigate this, patients with CLBP were randomly assigned to three groups: SE/rTMS, rTMS alone, and SE alone. Motor cortical organization, numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and postural balance stability were measured before and after a 2-week intervention. The results showed statistically significant differences in the representative location of multifidus on the left hemispheres, as well as in NPRS and ODI scores, in the combined SE/rTMS group after the intervention. When compared to the other two groups, the combined SE/rTMS group demonstrated significantly different motor cortical organization, sway area, and path range from the rTMS alone group, but not from the SE alone group. These findings highlight the potential benefits of a combined SE/rTMS intervention in terms of clinical outcomes and neuroadaptive changes compared to rTMS alone. However, there was no significant difference between the combined intervention and SE alone. Therefore, our research does not support the use of rTMS as a standalone treatment for CLBP. Our study contributed to optimizing treatment strategies for individuals suffering from CLBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Songwei Lu
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen 9713, the Netherlands
| | - Le Ge
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Zhicheng Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Yao Zu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Ruochen Fu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China
| | - Le Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, PR China.
| | - Chuhuai Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, PR China.
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da Silva Fiorin F, do Espírito Santo CC, Da Silva JT, Chung MK. Inflammation, brain connectivity, and neuromodulation in post-traumatic headache. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 35:100723. [PMID: 38292321 PMCID: PMC10827408 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic headache (PTH) is a debilitating condition that affects individuals with different levels of traumatic brain injury (TBI) severity. The difficulties in developing an effective treatment are related to a lack of understanding the complicated mechanisms and neurobiological changes in brain function after a brain injury. Preclinical studies have indicated that peripheral and central sensitization of the trigeminal nociceptive pathways contributes to PTH. While recent brain imaging studies have uncovered widespread changes in brain functional connectivity following trauma, understanding exactly how these networks contribute to PTH after injury remains unknown. Stimulation of peripheral (trigeminal or vagus) nerves show promising efficacies in PTH experimental animals, likely mediated by influencing TBI-induced pathological plasticity by decreasing neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis. Non-invasive brain stimulations, such as transcranial magnetic or direct current stimulations, show analgesia for multiple chronic pain conditions, including PTH. Better mechanistic understanding of analgesia achieved by neuromodulations can define peripheral and central mechanisms involved in the development, the resolution, and the management of PTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando da Silva Fiorin
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Program in Neuroscience, Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Caroline Cunha do Espírito Santo
- Graduate Program in Neuroengineering, Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Brazil
| | - Joyce T. Da Silva
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Program in Neuroscience, Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Man-Kyo Chung
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Program in Neuroscience, Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Adams W, Idnani S, Kim J. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Orthopedic Pain: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2024; 14:66. [PMID: 38248281 PMCID: PMC10813248 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) appears to alleviate chronic pain via a brain-down mechanism. Although several review studies have examined the effects of tDCS on patients with chronic pain, no systematic review or meta-analysis has comprehensively analyzed the effects of tDCS on chronic orthopedic joint pain in one study. We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of tDCS for pain reduction in chronic orthopedic patients; (2) Methods: A comprehensive search of five electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Cochrane) was performed. Only randomized controlled trials that compared tDCS with a control intervention were included. Eighteen studies met our inclusion criteria. We identified four categories of chronic orthopedic pain: knee (k = 8), lower back (k = 7), shoulder (k = 2), and orofacial pain (k = 1). Random effect models were utilized, and a sensitivity analysis was conducted in the presence of significant heterogeneity. Studies within each pain condition were further classified according to the number of treatment sessions: 1-5 sessions, 6-10 sessions, and >10 sessions.; (3) Results: Significant reductions in chronic orthopedic joint pain were observed following tDCS compared to controls for knee (g = 0.59, p = 0.005), lower back (g = 1.14, p = 0.005), and shoulder (g = 1.17, p = 0.020). Subgroup analyses showed pain reductions after 6-10 tDCS sessions for knee pain and after 1-5 and >10 sessions for lower back pain; (4) Conclusions: tDCS could be considered a potential stand-alone or supplemental therapy for chronic knee and lower back pain. The effectiveness of tDCS treatment varies depending on the number of treatment sessions. Our findings suggest the importance of implementing individualized treatment plans when considering tDCS for chronic pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Adams
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; (W.A.); (S.I.)
| | - Sherina Idnani
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; (W.A.); (S.I.)
| | - Joosung Kim
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; (W.A.); (S.I.)
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
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Canlı K, Van Oijen J, Van Oosterwijck J, Meeus M, Van Oosterwijck S, De Meulemeester K. Influence of sensory retraining on cortical reorganization in peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review. PM R 2023. [PMID: 38155585 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.13126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study systematically reviewed the literature about sensory retraining effect in comparison to other rehabilitative techniques on cortical reorganization in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain. TYPE: Systematic review. LITERATURE SURVEY After performing an electronic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase, risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials and the risk of bias in non-randomized studies-of interventions for non-randomized studies of intervention. METHODOLOGY The strength of conclusion was determined using the evidence-based guideline development approach. SYNTHESIS Limited evidence indicates a higher increase in cortical inhibition and a higher reduction in cortical activation during a motor task of the affected hemisphere after graded motor imagery compared to wait-list. Higher reductions in map volume (total excitability of the cortical representation) of the affected hemisphere after peripheral electrical stimulation (PES) were observed when compared to transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) or to sham treatment with limited evidence. No other differences in cortical excitability and representation of the affected and non-affected hemisphere were observed when comparing mirror therapy with sham therapy or tDCS, PES with sham therapy or tDCS, and graded motor imagery with wait-list. CONCLUSIONS Graded motor imagery and PES result in higher cortical excitability reductions of the affected hemisphere compared to wait-list, tDCS and sham treatment, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kübra Canlı
- Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Joris Van Oijen
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Spine, Pain and Head Research Unit Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jessica Van Oosterwijck
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Spine, Pain and Head Research Unit Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mira Meeus
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Spine, Pain and Head Research Unit Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Group MOVANT, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy (REVAKI), University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Sophie Van Oosterwijck
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Spine, Pain and Head Research Unit Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kayleigh De Meulemeester
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Spine, Pain and Head Research Unit Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
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Dissanayaka T, Nakandala P, Malwanage K, Hill AT, Ashthree DN, Lane MM, Travicia N, Gamage E, Marx W, Jaberzadeh S. The effects of anodal tDCS on pain reduction in people with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurophysiol Clin 2023; 53:102921. [PMID: 37984240 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2023.102921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To synthesise the literature on the efficacy of primary motor cortex anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (M1-a-tDCS), as a standalone or priming technique, for pain reduction in people with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). METHODS The systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase and CENTRAL according to PRISMA statement. RESULTS Fourteen studies involving 740 people with KOA were included. In the meta-analysis, six studies compared a-tDCS alone with sham stimulation, and five studies compared a-tDCS combined with other methods with sham stimulation. We found positive effect of a-tDCS alone on pain in KOA (standard mean difference (SMD) -0.52; 95% CI, -0.78 to -0.25; P=0.001; I2 = 69%). Further, a-tDCS with other treatments showed positive effect (SMD -1.23; 95% CI, -1.59 to -0.88; P<0.001; I2 = 48%) on pain in people with KOA. This evidence showed low certainty due to a high risk of bias and imprecision. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION A-tDCS could be considered as standalone and an adjunct treatment for pain reduction in people with KOA. Future randomised studies should address quality issues, including small sample size, to enhance the overall certainty of the findings. SIGNIFICANCE A-tDCS can be used as a standalone and adjunct treatment for KOA. STUDY REGISTRATION PROSPERO number CRD42021255114.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thusharika Dissanayaka
- Monash Neuromodulation Research Unit, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Primary Healthcare, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Deakin University, IMPACT (the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| | | | - Kavinda Malwanage
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Aron T Hill
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deborah N Ashthree
- Deakin University, IMPACT (the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Melissa M Lane
- Deakin University, IMPACT (the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Nikolaj Travicia
- Deakin University, IMPACT (the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Gamage
- Deakin University, IMPACT (the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Wolfgang Marx
- Deakin University, IMPACT (the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Shapour Jaberzadeh
- Monash Neuromodulation Research Unit, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Primary Healthcare, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Wattananon P, Thu KW, Maharjan S, Sornkaew K, Wang HK. Cortical excitability and multifidus activation responses to transcranial direct current stimulation in patients with chronic low back pain during remission. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16242. [PMID: 37758911 PMCID: PMC10533487 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43597-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence indicates that patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) have lumbar multifidus muscle (LM) activation deficit which might be caused by changes in cortical excitability. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) can be used to restore cortical excitability. This study aimed to (1) determine the immediate effects of a-tDCS on the cortical excitability and LM activation and (2) explore the relationship between cortical excitability and LM activation. Thirteen participants with CLBP during remission and 11 healthy participants were recruited. Cortical excitability (peak-to-peak motor evoked potential amplitude; P2P and cortical silent period; CSP) and LM activation were measured at pre- and post-intervention. We found significant difference (P < 0.05) in P2P between groups. However, no significant differences (P > 0.05) in P2P, CSP and LM activation were found between pre- and post-intervention in CLBP. The CLBP group demonstrated significant correlation (P = 0.05) between P2P and LM activation. Although our finding demonstrates change in P2P in the CLBP group, one-session of a-tDCS cannot induce changes in cortical excitability and LM activation. However, moderate to strong correlation between P2P and LM activation suggests the involvement of cortical level in LM activation deficit. Therefore, non-significant changes could have been due to inadequate dose of a-tDCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peemongkon Wattananon
- Spine Biomechanics Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, 999 Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, 73170, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.
| | - Khin Win Thu
- Spine Biomechanics Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, 999 Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, 73170, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Soniya Maharjan
- Spine Biomechanics Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, 999 Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, 73170, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Kanphajee Sornkaew
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, 99 Nakhonsawan-Phitsanulok Road, Tumbon Thapho, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Hsing-Kuo Wang
- Sports Physiotherapy Lab, School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No.17, Xuzhou Rd., Zhongzheng District, Taipei City 100, Taiwan
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Limerick G, Christo DK, Tram J, Moheimani R, Manor J, Chakravarthy K, Karri J, Christo PJ. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Evidence-Based Advances in Concepts and Treatments. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:269-298. [PMID: 37421541 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01130-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review presents the most current information about the epidemiology of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), classification and diagnostic criteria, childhood CRPS, subtypes, pathophysiology, conventional and less conventional treatments, and preventive strategies. RECENT FINDINGS CRPS is a painful disorder with multifactorial pathophysiology. The data describe sensitization of the central and peripheral nervous systems, inflammation, possible genetic factors, sympatho-afferent coupling, autoimmunity, and mental health factors as contributors to the syndrome. In addition to conventional subtypes (type I and type II), cluster analyses have uncovered other proposed subtypes. Prevalence of CRPS is approximately 1.2%, female gender is consistently associated with a higher risk of development, and substantial physical, emotional, and financial costs can result from the syndrome. Children with CRPS seem to benefit from multifaceted physical therapy leading to a high percentage of symptom-free patients. The best available evidence along with standard clinical practice supports pharmacological agents, physical and occupational therapy, sympathetic blocks for engaging physical restoration, steroids for acute CRPS, neuromodulation, ketamine, and intrathecal baclofen as therapeutic approaches. There are many emerging treatments that can be considered as a part of individualized, patient-centered care. Vitamin C may be preventive. CRPS can lead to progressively painful sensory and vascular changes, edema, limb weakness, and trophic disturbances, all of which substantially erode healthy living. Despite some progress in research, more comprehensive basic science investigation is needed to clarify the molecular mechanisms of the disease so that targeted treatments can be developed for better outcomes. Incorporating a variety of standard therapies with different modes of action may offer the most effective analgesia. Introducing less conventional approaches may also be helpful when traditional treatments fail to provide sufficient improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Limerick
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Dana K Christo
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Jennifer Tram
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - John Manor
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | | | - Jay Karri
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Paul J Christo
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
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Kong Q, Sacca V, Walker K, Hodges S, Kong J. Thalamocortical Mechanisms Underlying Real and Imagined Acupuncture. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1830. [PMID: 37509469 PMCID: PMC10377130 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Both acupuncture and imagery have shown potential for chronic pain management. However, the mechanisms underlying their analgesic effects remain unclear. This study aims to explore the thalamocortical mechanisms underlying acupuncture and video-guided acupuncture imagery treatment (VGAIT), a combination of acupuncture and guided imagery, using the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) of three thalamic subdivisions-the ventral posterolateral thalamus (VPL), mediodorsal thalamus (MD), and motor thalamus subregion (Mthal)-associated with somatosensory, limbic, and motor circuity. Twenty-seven healthy individuals participated in a within-subject randomized crossover design study. Results showed that compared to sham acupuncture, real acupuncture altered the rsFC between the thalamus and default mode network (DMN) (i.e., mPFC, PCC, and precuneus), as well as the prefrontal and somatosensory cortex (SI/SII). Compared to the VGAIT control, VGAIT demonstrated greater rsFC between the thalamus and key nodes within the interoceptive network (i.e., anterior insula, ACC, PFC, and SI/SII), as well as the motor and sensory cortices (i.e., M1, SMA, and temporal/occipital cortices). Furthermore, compared to real acupuncture, VGAIT demonstrated increased rsFC between the thalamus (VPL/MD/Mthal) and task-positive network (TPN). Further correlations between differences in rsFC and changes in the heat or pressure pain threshold were also observed. These findings suggest that both acupuncture- and VGAIT-induced analgesia are associated with thalamocortical networks. Elucidating the underlying mechanism of VGAIT and acupuncture may facilitate their development, particularly VGAIT, which may be used as a potential remote-delivered pain management approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jian Kong
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
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Nikakhlagh S, Fatahiasl J, Saki Malehi A, Tabibzadeh SM. The Evaluation of Effects of Electrical Stimulation in Treatment of Patients with Chronic Tinnitus with Normal Hearing Sensitivity. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2023; 75:409-415. [PMID: 37206773 PMCID: PMC10188872 DOI: 10.1007/s12070-023-03503-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Tinnitus is usually associated with different comorbidities such as anxiety, annoyance and depression. Evidences have targeted two main places for tinnitus treatment, namely the auditory cortex and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been reportedly associated with improvement of cognitive functions in individuals. This study was conducted to evaluate the therapeutic effects of repeated sessions of anodal bifrontal tDCS on tinnitus symptoms. Furthermore, the tDCS impacts on the comorbid depression and anxiety of the patients were investigated. Forty-two voluntaries that suffers from chronic tinnitus were randomly assigned into "real tDCS" (n = 21) and "sham tDCS" (n = 21) groups. The tDCS group, received tDCS with the protocol consisted of 2 mA current, daily one session of 20 min, 6 consecutive days per week and for 4 consecutive weeks. The tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) scale, was measured before the first tDCS session and at one-week and two weeks follow-up. With the same intervals; the distress-related tinnitus was evaluated using visual analogue scale. Depression and anxiety scores were also measured using the Beck depression inventory and Beck anxiety inventory scales, respectively. Our findings indicated that THI score, depression and anxiety level has been gradually diminished across subsequent measurement intervals. We also find significant reduction of distress-related tinnitus in the real-tDCS group after treatment. We conclude that application of tDCS to the bilateral DLPFC region alleviates chronic tinnitus and it should be considered in patients with refractory tinnitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Nikakhlagh
- Hearing Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Science, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Jafar Fatahiasl
- Hearing Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Science, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Amal Saki Malehi
- Hearing Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Science, Ahvaz, Iran
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Nascimento RMD, Cavalcanti RL, Souza CG, Chaves G, Macedo LB. Transcranial direct current stimulation combined with peripheral stimulation in chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Expert Rev Med Devices 2023; 20:121-140. [PMID: 35130800 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2022.2039623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The combination of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) with peripheral stimulation may optimize their effects and bring positive results in treatment of people with chronic pain. AREAS COVERED A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized trials was performed to investigate the combination of tDCS with peripheral stimulation in adults with chronic pain. The primary outcome was pain intensity. Six studies were included in this review (sample of 228 participants), which investigated the combination of tDCS and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, peripheral electrical stimulation, breathing-controlled electrical stimulation and intramuscular electrical stimulation. The conditions studied were knee osteoarthritis, spinal cord injury, chronic low back pain, and neurogenic pain of the arms. Pain intensity, measured by visual analog scale or numerical rating scale, was reduced in all included studies when at least one of the interventions was active, regardless they were combined or alone, with or without tDCS. However, meta-analysis showed superiority of tDCS used in combination with peripheral stimulation. EXPERT OPINION This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests positive effects of tDCS combined with peripheral stimulation in chronic pain conditions. However, the evidence of the primary outcome was classified as low quality due to the limited number of studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Clécio Gabriel Souza
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairí, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Santa Cruz, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Chaves
- Research and Development, Myant Inc. . Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Liane Brito Macedo
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairí, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Santa Cruz, Brazil
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12
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Agostinho M, Weissman Fogel I, Treister R. Time since onset might be of essence: A recommendation to assess the effects of combination of non-pharmacological neuromodulatory approaches at early stage since symptoms onset. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1115370. [PMID: 36793488 PMCID: PMC9923174 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1115370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past decade researchers began to assess the potential beneficial effects of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) combined with a behavioral task as a treatment approach for various medical conditions. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied to the motor cortex combined with another treatment approach has been assessed as analgesic treatment in neuropathic and non-neuropathic pain conditions, and was found to exert only modest pain relief. Our group results show that combined tDCS and mirror therapy dramatically reduced acute phantom limb pain intensity with long-lasting effects, potentially preventing pain chronification. A review of the scientific literature indicates that our approach differs from that of others: We applied the intervention at the acute stage of the disease, whereas other studies applied the intervention in patients whose disease had already been established. We suggest that the timing of administration of the combined intervention is critical. Unlike in patients with chronic painful condition, in which the maladaptive plasticity associated with pain chronification and chronicity is well-consolidated, early treatment at the acute pain stage may be more successful in counterbalancing the not-yet consolidated maladaptive plasticity. We encourage the research community to test our hypothesis, both in the treatment of pain, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Agostinho
- The Cheryl Spencer Department of Nursing, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel,Centre for Interdisciplinary Health Research, CIIS, Institute of Health Sciences, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Irit Weissman Fogel
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Roi Treister
- The Cheryl Spencer Department of Nursing, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel,*Correspondence: Roi Treister ✉
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13
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Cortical function and sensorimotor plasticity are prognostic factors associated with future low back pain after an acute episode: the Understanding persistent Pain Where it ResiDes prospective cohort study. Pain 2023; 164:14-26. [PMID: 35559930 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Predicting the development of chronic low back pain (LBP) at the time of an acute episode remains challenging. The Understanding persistent Pain Where it ResiDes study aimed to identify neurobiological and psychological risk factors for chronic LBP. Individuals with acute LBP (N = 120) participated in a prospective cohort study with 6-month follow-up. Candidate predictors were selected from the neurobiological (eg, sensorimotor cortical excitability assessed by sensory and motor-evoked potentials and brain-derived neurotrophic factor genotype), psychological (eg, depression and anxiety), symptom-related (eg, LBP history), and demographic domains. Analyses involved multivariable linear regression models with pain intensity or disability degree as continuous variables. Secondary analyses involved a multivariable logistic model with the presence of LBP at 6 months (thresholding pain intensity and disability degree) as a dichotomous variable. Lower sensory cortex and corticomotor excitability, higher baseline pain intensity, higher depression, stress, and pain catastrophizing were the strongest predictors ( R2 = 0.47) of pain intensity at 6 months. Older age and higher pain catastrophizing were the strongest predictors ( R2 = 0.30) of disability at 6 months. When the LBP outcome was dichotomised, sensory cortex and corticomotor excitability, brain-derived neurotrophic factor genotype, depression and anxiety, LBP history and baseline pain intensity, discriminated between those who did and did not report LBP at 6 months (C-statistic 0.91). This study identifies novel risk factors for the development of future LBP. Neurobiological risk factors, when added to a multivariable linear regression model, explained a further 15% of the variance in the 6-month pain intensity.
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14
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Associations between primary motor cortex organization, motor control and sensory tests during the clinical course of low back pain. A protocol for a cross-sectional and longitudinal case-control study. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 30:101022. [PMID: 36387987 PMCID: PMC9647172 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.101022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In people with low back pain (LBP), altered motor control has been related to reorganization of the primary motor cortex (M1). Sensory impairments in LBP have also been suggested to be associated with reorganization of M1. Little is known about reorganization of M1 over time in people with LBP, and whether it relates to changes in motor control and sensory impairments and recovery. This study aims to investigate 1) differences in organization of M1 of trunk muscles between people with and without LBP, and whether the organization of M1 relates to motor control and sensory impairments (cross-sectional component) and 2) reorganization of M1 over time and its relation with changes in motor control and sensory impairments and experienced recovery (longitudinal component). Methods A case-control study with a cross-sectional and five-week longitudinal component is conducted in participants with LBP (N = 25) and participants without LBP (N = 25). Participants with LBP received usual care physiotherapy. Various tests were administered at baseline and follow-up. Following an anatomical MRI, organization of M1 (Center of Gravity and Area of the cortical representation of trunk muscles) was determined using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Quantitative sensory testing, a spiral-tracking motor control test, graphesthesia, two-point discrimination threshold and various self-reported questionnaires were also assessed. Multivariate multilevel analysis will be used for statistical analysis. Conclusion We will address the gaps in knowledge about the association between reorganization of M1 and motor control and sensory tests during the clinical course of LBP. This study is registered at DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/5C8ZG. We assess relations between the organization of M1 and motor and sensory tests. This study provides insight in the organization of M1 in LBP in relation to recovery. The organization of M1 is assessed via TMS. We used whole-brain MRI's for high accuracy of representation of muscles on M1. We will use multivariate mixed model analysis to relate M1, motor and sensory tests.
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15
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Alcon CA, Wang-Price S. Non-invasive brain stimulation and pain neuroscience education in the cognitive-affective treatment of chronic low back pain: Evidence and future directions. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:959609. [PMID: 36438443 PMCID: PMC9686004 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.959609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is among the leading causes of disability worldwide. Beyond the physical and functional limitations, people's beliefs, cognitions, and perceptions of their pain can negatively influence their prognosis. Altered cognitive and affective behaviors, such as pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia, are correlated with changes in the brain and share a dynamic and bidirectional relationship. Similarly, in the presence of persistent pain, attentional control mechanisms, which serve to organize relevant task information are impaired. These deficits demonstrate that pain may be a predominant focus of attentional resources, leaving limited reserve for other cognitively demanding tasks. Cognitive dysfunction may limit one's capacity to evaluate, interpret, and revise the maladaptive thoughts and behaviors associated with catastrophizing and fear. As such, interventions targeting the brain and resultant behaviors are compelling. Pain neuroscience education (PNE), a cognitive intervention used to reconceptualize a person's pain experiences, has been shown to reduce the effects of pain catastrophizing and kinesiophobia. However, cognitive deficits associated with chronic pain may impact the efficacy of such interventions. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and pain. In addition, as with the treatment of most physical and psychological diagnoses, an active multimodal approach is considered to be optimal. Therefore, combining the neuromodulatory effects of NIBS with a cognitive intervention such as PNE could be promising. This review highlights the cognitive-affective deficits associated with CLBP while focusing on current evidence for cognition-based therapies and NIBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory A. Alcon
- Department of Physical Therapy, High Point University, High Point, NC, United States
- School of Physical Therapy, Texas Woman’s University, Dallas, TX, United States
- Correspondence: Cory A. Alcon
| | - Sharon Wang-Price
- School of Physical Therapy, Texas Woman’s University, Dallas, TX, United States
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16
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Chang TT, Chang YH, Du SH, Chen PJ, Wang XQ. Non-invasive brain neuromodulation techniques for chronic low back pain. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1032617. [PMID: 36340685 PMCID: PMC9627199 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1032617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural and functional changes of the brain occur in many chronic pain conditions, including chronic low back pain (CLBP), and these brain abnormalities can be reversed by effective treatment. Research on the clinical applications of non-invasive brain neuromodulation (NIBS) techniques for chronic pain is increasing. Unfortunately, little is known about the effectiveness of NIBS on CLBP, which limits its application in clinical pain management. Therefore, we summarized the effectiveness and limitations of NIBS techniques on CLBP management and described the effects and mechanisms of NIBS approaches on CLBP in this review. Overall, NIBS may be effective for the treatment of CLBP. And the analgesic mechanisms of NIBS for CLBP may involve the regulation of pain signal pathway, synaptic plasticity, neuroprotective effect, neuroinflammation modulation, and variations in cerebral blood flow and metabolism. Current NIBS studies for CLBP have limitations, such as small sample size, relative low quality of evidence, and lack of mechanistic studies. Further studies on the effect of NIBS are needed, especially randomized controlled trials with high quality and large sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Tian Chang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Hao Chang
- Department of Luoyang Postgraduate Training, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Luoyang, China
| | - Shu-Hao Du
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Pei-Jie Chen
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Pei-Jie Chen,
| | - Xue-Qiang Wang
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Shangti Orthopaedic Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Human Performance, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Xue-Qiang Wang,
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17
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Adhia DB, Mani R, Reynolds JN, Hall M, Vanneste S, De Ridder D. High-Definition Transcranial Infraslow Pink-Noise Stimulation Can Influence Functional and Effective Cortical Connectivity in Individuals With Chronic Low Back Pain: A Pilot Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. Neuromodulation 2022:S1094-7159(22)01225-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.08.450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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18
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Qu N, Tian H, De Martino E, Zhang B. Neck Pain: Do We Know Enough About the Sensorimotor Control System? Front Comput Neurosci 2022; 16:946514. [PMID: 35910451 PMCID: PMC9337601 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2022.946514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neck pain is a worldwide health problem. Clarifying the etiology and providing effective interventions are challenging for the multifactorial nature of neck pain. As an essential component of cervical spine function, the sensorimotor control system has been extensively studied in both healthy and pathological conditions. Proprioceptive signals generated from cervical structures are crucial to normal cervical functions, and abnormal proprioception caused by neck pain leads to alterations in neural plasticity, cervical muscle recruitment and cervical kinematics. The long-term sensorimotor disturbance and maladaptive neural plasticity are supposed to contribute to the recurrence and chronicity of neck pain. Therefore, multiple clinical evaluations and treatments aiming at restoring the sensorimotor control system and neural plasticity have been proposed. This paper provides a short review on neck pain from perspectives of proprioception, sensorimotor control system, neural plasticity and potential interventions. Future research may need to clarify the molecular mechanism underlying proprioception and pain. The existing assessment methods of cervical proprioceptive impairment and corresponding treatments may need to be systematically reevaluated and standardized. Additionally, new precise motor parameters reflecting sensorimotor deficit and more effective interventions targeting the sensorimotor control system or neural plasticity are encouraged to be proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Qu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - HaoChun Tian
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Enrico De Martino
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhang,
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19
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Adhia DB, Mani R, Reynolds JNJ, Vanneste S, De Ridder D. High-definition transcranial infraslow pink noise stimulation for chronic low back pain: protocol for a pilot, safety and feasibility randomised placebo-controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056842. [PMID: 35705354 PMCID: PMC9204463 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common disabling health condition. Current treatments demonstrate modest effects, warranting newer therapies. Brain imaging demonstrates altered electrical activities in cortical areas responsible for pain modulation, emotional and sensory components of pain experience. Treatments targeting to change electrical activities of these key brain regions may produce clinical benefits. This pilot study aims to (1) evaluate feasibility, safety and acceptability of a novel neuromodulation technique, high-definition transcranial infraslow pink noise stimulation (HD-tIPNS), in people with CLBP, (2) explore the trend of effect of HD-tIPNS on pain and function, and (3) derive treatment estimates to support sample size calculation for a fully powered trial should trends of effectiveness be present. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A pilot, triple-blinded randomised two-arm placebo-controlled parallel trial. Participants (n=40) with CLBP will be randomised to either sham stimulation or HD-tIPNS (targeting somatosensory cortex and dorsal and pregenual anterior cingulate cortex). Primary outcomes include feasibility and safety measures, and clinical outcomes of pain (Brief Pain Inventory) and disability (Roland-Morris disability questionnaire). Secondary measures include clinical, psychological, quantitative sensory testing and electroencephalography collected at baseline, immediately postintervention, and at 1-week, 1-month and 3 months postintervention. All data will be analysed descriptively. A nested qualitative study will assess participants perceptions about acceptability of intervention and analysed thematically. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from Health and Disability Ethics Committee (Ref:20/NTB/67). Findings will be reported to regulatory and funding bodies, presented at conferences, and published in a scientific journal. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12620000505909p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Bharatkumar Adhia
- Department of Surgical Sciences, and Pain@Otago Research Theme, University of Otago - Dunedin Campus, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ramakrishnan Mani
- Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, and Pain@Otago Research Theme, University of Otago - Dunedin Campus, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - John N J Reynolds
- Department of Anatomy and the Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago - Dunedin Campus, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sven Vanneste
- School of Psychology, Global Brain Health Institute, Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dirk De Ridder
- Department of Surgical Sciences, and Pain@Otago Research Theme, University of Otago - Dunedin Campus, Dunedin, New Zealand
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20
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Rohel A, Desmons M, Leonard G, Desgagnés A, da Silva R, Simoneau M, Mercier C, Massé-Alarie H. The influence of experimental low back pain on neural networks involved in the control of lumbar erector spinae muscles. J Neurophysiol 2022; 127:1593-1605. [PMID: 35608262 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00030.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low back pain (LBP) often modifies spine motor control, but the neural origin of these motor control changes remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to determine the impact of experimental low back pain on the excitability of cortical, subcortical, and spinal networks involved in the control of back muscles. METHOD Thirty healthy subjects were recruited and allocated to Pain (capsaicin and heat) or Control (heat) groups. Corticospinal excitability (motor-evoked potential-MEP) and intracortical networks were assessed by single- and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation, respectively. Electrical vestibular stimulation was applied to assess vestibulospinal excitability (vestibular MEP-VMEP), and the stretch reflex for excitability of the spinal or supraspinal loop (R1 and R2, respectively). Evoked back motor responses were measured before, during and after pain induction. Nonparametric rank-based ANOVA determined if pain modulated motor neural networks. RESULTS A decrease of R1 amplitude was present after the pain disappearance (p=0.01) whereas an increase was observed in the control group (p=0.03) compared to the R1 amplitude measured at pre-pain and pre-heat period, respectively (Group x Time interaction - p<0.001). No difference in MEP and VMEP amplitude was present during and after pain (p>0.05). CONCLUSION During experimental LBP, no change in cortical, subcortical, or spinal networks was observed. After pain disappearance, the reduction of the R1 amplitude without modification of MEP and VMEP amplitude suggest a reduction in spinal excitability potentially combined with an increase in descending drives. The absence of effect during pain needs to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Rohel
- Cirris research centre, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Mikaël Desmons
- Cirris research centre, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Guillaume Leonard
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Amélie Desgagnés
- Cirris research centre, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Rubens da Silva
- BioNR Research Lab, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Chicoutimi, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martin Simoneau
- Cirris research centre, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Catherine Mercier
- Cirris research centre, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Hugo Massé-Alarie
- Cirris research centre, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
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21
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Shraim MA, Massé-Alarie H, Salomoni SE, Hodges PW. Can training of a skilled pelvic movement change corticomotor control of back muscles? Comparison of single and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:3705-3719. [PMID: 35501123 PMCID: PMC9540878 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Evidence suggests excitability of the motor cortex (M1) changes in response to motor skill learning of the upper limb. Few studies have examined immediate changes in corticospinal excitability and intra‐cortical mechanisms following motor learning in the lower back. Further, it is unknown which transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) paradigms are likely to reveal changes in cortical function in this region. This study aimed to (1) compare corticospinal excitability and intra‐cortical mechanisms in the lower back region of M1 before and after a single session of lumbopelvic tilt motor learning task in healthy people and (2) compare these measures between two TMS coils and two methods of recruitment curve (RC) acquisition. Twenty‐eight young participants (23.6 ± 4.6 years) completed a lumbopelvic tilting task involving three 5‐min blocks. Single‐pulse (RC from 70% to 150% of active motor threshold) and paired‐pulse TMS measures (ICF, SICF and SICI) were undertaken before (using 2 coils: figure‐of‐8 and double cone) and after (using double cone coil only) training. RCs were also acquired using a traditional and rapid method. A significant increase in corticospinal excitability was found after training as measured by RC intensities, but this was not related to the RC slope. No significant differences were found for paired‐pulse measures after training. Finally, there was good agreement between RC parameters when measured with the two different TMS coils or different acquisition methods (traditional vs. rapid). Changes in corticospinal excitability after a single session of lumbopelvic motor learning task are seen, but these changes are not explained by changes in intra‐cortical mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muath A Shraim
- The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury & Health, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, QLD, Australia
| | - Hugo Massé-Alarie
- The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury & Health, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, QLD, Australia.,Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et integration sociale (CIRRIS), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Sauro E Salomoni
- The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury & Health, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul W Hodges
- The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury & Health, School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, QLD, Australia
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22
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Jadidi AF, Stevenson AJT, Zarei AA, Jensen W, Lontis R. Effect of Modulated TENS on Corticospinal Excitability in Healthy Subjects. Neuroscience 2022; 485:53-64. [PMID: 35031397 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Conventional transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has been reported to effectively alleviate chronic pain, including phantom limb pain (PLP). Recently, literature has focused on modulated TENS patterns, such as pulse width modulation (PWM) and burst modulation (BM), as alternatives to conventional, non-modulated (NM) sensory neurostimulation to increase the efficiency of rehabilitation. However, there is still limited knowledge of how these modulated TENS patterns affect corticospinal (CS) and motor cortex activity. Therefore, our aim was to first investigate the effect of modulated TENS patterns on CS activity and corticomotor map in healthy subjects. Motor evoked potentials (MEP) elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) were recorded from three muscles before and after the application of TENS interventions. Four different TENS patterns (PWM, BM, NM 40 Hz, and NM 100 Hz) were applied. The results revealed significant facilitation of CS excitability following the PWM intervention. We also found an increase in the volume of the motor cortical map following the application of the PWM and NM (40 Hz). Although PLP alleviation has been reported to be associated with an enhancement of corticospinal excitability, the efficiency of the PWM intervention to induce pain alleviation should be validated in a future clinical study in amputees with PLP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armita Faghani Jadidi
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP) Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Denmark.
| | | | - Ali Asghar Zarei
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP) Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Winnie Jensen
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP) Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Romulus Lontis
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP) Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Denmark
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23
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de Brito FX, Luz-Santos C, Camatti JR, de Souza da Fonseca RJ, Suzarth G, Moraes LMC, da Silva ML, da Silva JRT, Vercelino R, Sá KN, Zana Y, Baptista AF. Electroacupuncture modulates cortical excitability in a manner dependent on the parameters used. Acupunct Med 2021; 40:178-185. [PMID: 34886714 DOI: 10.1177/09645284211057560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is evidence that electroacupuncture (EA) acts through the modulation of brain activity, but little is known about its influence on corticospinal excitability of the primary motor cortex (M1). OBJECTIVE To investigate the influence of EA parameters on the excitability of M1 in healthy individuals. METHODS A parallel, double blind, randomized controlled trial in healthy subjects, evaluating the influence of an EA intervention on M1 excitability. Participants had a needle inserted at LI4 in the dominant hand and received electrical stimulation of different frequencies (10 or 100 Hz) and amplitude (sensory or motor threshold) for 20 min. In the control group, only a brief (30 s) electrical stimulation was applied. Single and paired pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation coupled with electromyography was applied before and immediately after the EA intervention. Resting motor threshold, motor evoked potential, short intracortical inhibition and intracortical facilitation were measured. RESULTS EA increased corticospinal excitability of M1 compared to the control group only when administered with a frequency of 100 Hz at the sensory threshold (p < 0.05). There were no significant changes in the other measures. CONCLUSION The results suggest that EA with an intensity level at the sensorial threshold and 100 Hz frequency increases the corticospinal excitability of M1. This effect may be associated with a decrease in the activity of inhibitory intracortical mechanisms. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER U1111-1173-1946 (Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos; http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/).
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Xavier de Brito
- Health and Function Study Nucleus, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Graduate Program in Medicine and Human Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Cleber Luz-Santos
- Health and Function Study Nucleus, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Graduate Program in Medicine and Human Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Janine Ribeiro Camatti
- Health and Function Study Nucleus, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Center for Mathematics, Computation and Cognition, Federal University of ABC, São Bernardo do Campo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Giovana Suzarth
- Health and Function Study Nucleus, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Rafael Vercelino
- Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Katia Nunes Sá
- Research and Innovation, Bahiana School of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Yossi Zana
- Center for Mathematics, Computation and Cognition, Federal University of ABC, São Bernardo do Campo, SP, Brazil
| | - Abrahão Fontes Baptista
- Health and Function Study Nucleus, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Graduate Program in Medicine and Human Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Center for Mathematics, Computation and Cognition, Federal University of ABC, São Bernardo do Campo, SP, Brazil.,Laboratory of Medical Investigations 54 (LIM-54), São Paulo University, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,CEPID BRAINN, FAPESP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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24
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Kamal SM, Elhusseini NM, Sedik MF, Mohamad MF, Khedr EM, Kotb HI. Effect of transcranial direct current brain stimulation of the motor cortex on chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting in female patients with breast cancer. PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 23:571-578. [PMID: 34677609 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnab313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a negative impact associated to chemotherapy and its management still challenging. This study aimed to research the additive impact of single-session tDCS (2 mA) over the motor cortex for 20 minutes before chemotherapy to antiemetic on CINV in female patients suffers from breast cancer who obtained highly emetogenic chemotherapy. STUDY LAYOUT Prospective randomized double-blind Sham-controlled study. SETTING Academic medical center. METHOD Sixty breast cancer patients prepared for chemotherapy treatment were selected and allocated randomly into two equal groups: a real and a sham group; tDCS became implemented over the primary motor area (M1) (2 mA) for 20 minutes. Patients' nausea was measured by cumulative index of nausea and visual analog scale for nausea (VAS-N), and vomiting by cumulative index of episodes of vomiting, and Edmonton symptoms Assessment Scale (ESAS) to assess symptoms like pain, malaise, and sense of well-being. Evaluation was done prestimulation and every 24 h for 72 h after end of infusion of chemotherapy. RESULTS Real tDCS group showed reduction of cumulative index of nausea (P < 0.001, F = 50), VAS-N (P < 0.001, F = 52) and for ESAS in malaise score (P < 0.001, F = 37.6) and sense of wellbeing score (P < 0.001, F = 25) than sham group. Six patients (20%) in the real group required rescue antiemtic therapy vs. 14 patients (46.7%) in the Sham group (P < 0.028). CONCLUSION Single session of real M1 tDCS could be suggested as an effective adjuvant maneuver in control of CINV in female patients suffers from breast cancer who obtained highly emetogenic chemotherapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials.gov trial registry (identifier: NCT03405324).
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Kamal
- Associate professor in Anesthesia, intensive care and pain management department, South Egypt Cancer institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - N M Elhusseini
- Resident of anesthesiology, intensive care and pain management, South Egypt Cancer institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - M F Sedik
- Lecturer in medical oncology department, South Egypt Cancer institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - M F Mohamad
- Associate professor in Anesthesia, intensive care and pain management department, South Egypt Cancer institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - E M Khedr
- Professor of neurology and psychiatry, faculty of medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - H I Kotb
- Professor of anesthesiology, intensive care and pain management, Faculty of medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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25
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Lai WY, Cui H, Hu Y. Correlation between change in pain, disability, and surface electromyography topographic parameters after interferential current treatment in patients with chronic low back pain. J Phys Ther Sci 2021; 33:772-778. [PMID: 34658523 PMCID: PMC8516599 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.33.772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] Surface electromyography (SEMG) topography is used to objectively assess
patients with low back pain (LBP). This study aimed to investigate the correlation between
SEMG topographic variables, pain, and disability in patients with chronic LBP (CLBP) after
interferential current (IFC) treatment, and to evaluate IFC treatment efficacy using SEMG
topography. [Participants and Methods] Twenty nine patients with CLBP were recruited for a
6-week IFC treatment. Pain and disability scores, and the root-mean-square difference
(RMSD) of SEMG topographic variables (relative areas [RAs] at flexion and extension) were
compared before and after the intervention by repeated measures ANOVA; the correlation
between variables was also explored and p-value was set at 0.001. [Results] Significant
positive correlations between changes in pain score and the RMSD of RA at flexion
(r(29)=0.593), and between changes in pain and disability scores (r(29)=0.426) were
observed. All participants showed statistically significant improvements in the RMSD of RA
at flexion, pain score, and disability score after IFC treatment. [Conclusion] SEMG
topographic variables are closely associated with changes in pain score in patients with
CLBP after IFC treatment. The RMSD of RA at flexion can be used as an objective marker in
IFC treatment efficacy evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Ying Lai
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong: 12 Sandy Bay Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.,Physiotherapy Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Hongyan Cui
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, China
| | - Yong Hu
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong: 12 Sandy Bay Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, China
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26
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Desmons M, Rohel A, Desgagnés A, Mercier C, Massé-Alarie H. Influence of different transcranial magnetic stimulation current directions on the corticomotor control of lumbar erector spinae muscles during a static task. J Neurophysiol 2021; 126:1276-1288. [PMID: 34550037 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00137.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Different directions of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can activate different neuronal circuits. Whereas posteroanterior current (PA-TMS) depolarizes mainly interneurons in primary motor cortex (M1), an anteroposterior current (AP-TMS) has been suggested to activate different M1 circuits and perhaps axons from the premotor regions. Although M1 is also involved in the control of axial muscles, no study has explored whether different current directions activate different M1 circuits that may have distinct functional roles. The aim of the study was to compare the effect of different current directions (PA- and AP-TMS) on the corticomotor control and spatial cortical organization of the lumbar erector spinae muscle (LES). Thirty-four healthy participants were recruited for two independent experiments, and LES motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded. In experiment 1 (n = 17), active motor threshold (AMT), MEP latencies, recruitment curve (90% to 160% AMT), and excitatory and inhibitory intracortical mechanisms by paired-pulse TMS (80% followed by 120% AMT stimuli at 2-, 3-, 10-, and 15-ms interstimulus intervals) were tested with a double-cone (n = 12) and a figure-of-eight (n = 5) coil. In experiment 2 (n = 17), LES cortical representations were tested with PA- and AP-TMS. AMT was higher for AP- compared with PA-TMS (P = 0.002). Longer latencies with AP-TMS were present compared with PA-TMS (P = 0.017). AP-TMS produced more inhibition compared with PA-TMS at 2 ms and 3 ms (P = 0.010), but no difference was observed for longer intervals. No difference was found for recruitment curve and mapping. These findings suggest that PA- and AP-TMS may activate different cortical circuits controlling low back muscles, as proposed for hand muscles.NEW & NOTEWORTHY For the first time, anteroposterior and posteroanterior induced electric currents in the brain were compared when targeting back muscle representation with transcranial magnetic stimulation. The use of the anteroposterior current resulted in later response latency, larger inhibition probed by paired-pulse stimulation, and higher motor threshold. These important differences between current directions suggest that each of the current directions may recruit specific cortical circuits involved in the control of back muscles, similar to that for hand muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaël Desmons
- CIRRIS Research Centre, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Antoine Rohel
- CIRRIS Research Centre, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Amélie Desgagnés
- CIRRIS Research Centre, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Catherine Mercier
- CIRRIS Research Centre, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Rehabilitation Unit, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hugo Massé-Alarie
- CIRRIS Research Centre, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Rehabilitation Unit, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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27
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Cao J, Tu Y, Orr SP, Wilson G, Kong J. Modulatory Effects of Actual and Imagined Acupuncture on the Functional Connectivity of the Periaqueductal Gray and Ventral Tegmental Area. Psychosom Med 2021; 83:870-879. [PMID: 34292206 PMCID: PMC8490288 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000000984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Both acupuncture and guided imagery hold promise for treating pain. The mechanisms underlying these alternative interventions remain unclear. The reported study aimed to comparatively investigate the modulation effect of actual and imagined acupuncture on the functional connectivity of descending pain modulation system and reward network. METHODS Twenty-four healthy participants (mean [standard error], 25.21 [0.77] years of age; 66.67% female) completed a crossover study that included five sessions, a training session and four intervention sessions administered in randomized order. We investigated the modulation effect of real acupuncture, sham acupuncture, video-guided acupuncture imagery treatment (VGAIT) and VGAIT control on the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) of periaqueductal gray (PAG) and ventral tegmental area (VTA). These are key regions of the descending pain modulatory system and dopaminergic reward system, respectively. RESULTS Compared with sham acupuncture, real acupuncture produced decreased PAG-precuneus (Pcu) rsFC and increased VTA-amygdala/hippocampus rsFC. Heat pain threshold changes applied on the contralateral forearm were significantly associated with the decreased PAG-Pcu (r = 0.49, p = .016) and increased VTA-hippocampus rsFC (r = -0.77, p < .001). Compared with VGAIT control, VGAIT produced decreased PAG-paracentral lobule/posterior cingulate cortex/Pcu, middle cingulate cortex (MCC), and medial prefrontal cortex rsFC, and decreased VTA-caudate and MCC rsFC. Direct comparison between real acupuncture and VGAIT showed that VGAIT decreased rsFC in PAG-paracentral lobule/MCC, VTA-caudate/anterior cingulate cortex/nucleus accumbens, and VTA-MCC. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that both actual and imagined acupuncture can modulate key regions in the descending pain modulatory system and reward networks, but through different pathways. Identification of different pain relief mechanisms may facilitate the development of new pain management methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Cao
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Yiheng Tu
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Scott P. Orr
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Georgia Wilson
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Jian Kong
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Martinos Brain Imaging Center, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
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28
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Kandić M, Moliadze V, Andoh J, Flor H, Nees F. Brain Circuits Involved in the Development of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Evidence From Non-invasive Brain Stimulation. Front Neurol 2021; 12:732034. [PMID: 34531819 PMCID: PMC8438114 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.732034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been well-documented that the brain changes in states of chronic pain. Less is known about changes in the brain that predict the transition from acute to chronic pain. Evidence from neuroimaging studies suggests a shift from brain regions involved in nociceptive processing to corticostriatal brain regions that are instrumental in the processing of reward and emotional learning in the transition to the chronic state. In addition, dysfunction in descending pain modulatory circuits encompassing the periaqueductal gray and the rostral anterior cingulate cortex may also be a key risk factor for pain chronicity. Although longitudinal imaging studies have revealed potential predictors of pain chronicity, their causal role has not yet been determined. Here we review evidence from studies that involve non-invasive brain stimulation to elucidate to what extent they may help to elucidate the brain circuits involved in pain chronicity. Especially, we focus on studies using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques [e.g., transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), particularly its repetitive form (rTMS), transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)] in the context of musculoskeletal pain chronicity. We focus on the role of the motor cortex because of its known contribution to sensory components of pain via thalamic inhibition, and the role of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex because of its role on cognitive and affective processing of pain. We will also discuss findings from studies using experimentally induced prolonged pain and studies implicating the DLPFC, which may shed light on the earliest transition phase to chronicity. We propose that combined brain stimulation and imaging studies might further advance mechanistic models of the chronicity process and involved brain circuits. Implications and challenges for translating the research on mechanistic models of the development of chronic pain to clinical practice will also be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Kandić
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Vera Moliadze
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jamila Andoh
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Herta Flor
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frauke Nees
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
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29
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Rahimi F, Nejati V, Nassadj G, Ziaei B, Mohammadi HK. The effect of transcranial direct stimulation as an add-on treatment to conventional physical therapy on pain intensity and functional ability in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial. Neurophysiol Clin 2021; 51:507-516. [PMID: 34518098 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of adding transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to conventional physiotherapy treatment (PT) on pain and performance of individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). METHODS Eighty people suffering from chronic KOA participated in this study. They were randomly divided into four treatment groups, including PT combined with tDCS over the primary motor cortex (M1), PT combined with tDCS over the primary sensory cortex (S1), PT combined with tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and PT combined with sham tDCS. A visual analog scale (VAS) for pain intensity, the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire for knee-related disability, and several performance tests (stepping 15 s, chair stand test in 30 s, and walking 4 × 10 m) were used for assessment following 10 sessions of tDCS (T1), and one month after the last session of tDCS (T2). RESULTS Differential effects on pain intensity, knee-related disability, and performance were found between groups. Compared to sham tDCS: (i) tDCS over M1 improved VAS pain score, KOOS disability score, and performance tests at T1 and T2; (ii) tDCS over S1 improved VAS pain score at T1 and T2 and KOOS disability score and performance tests at T2; (iii) tDCS over the DLPFC improved VAS pain score at T1 and performance tests at T1 and T2. CONCLUSION tDCS could be a beneficial add-on treatment to conventional PT for pain relief, disability reduction and functional improvement in patients with KOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Rahimi
- Department of Physiotherapy, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Center, Rehabilitation School, Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Vahid Nejati
- Cognitive Neurosciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Nassadj
- Department of Physiotherapy, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Center, Rehabilitation School, Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Bahare Ziaei
- Department of Physiotherapy, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Center, Rehabilitation School, Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Hossein Kouhzad Mohammadi
- Department of Physiotherapy, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Center, Rehabilitation School, Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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30
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Jenkins LC, Chang WJ, Buscemi V, Liston M, Skippen P, Cashin AG, McAuley JH, Schabrun SM. Low Somatosensory Cortex Excitability in the Acute Stage of Low Back Pain Causes Chronic Pain. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 23:289-304. [PMID: 34492395 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Determining the mechanistic causes of complex biopsychosocial health conditions such as low back pain (LBP) is challenging, and research is scarce. Cross-sectional studies demonstrate altered excitability and organization of the somatosensory and motor cortex in people with acute and chronic LBP, however, no study has explored these mechanisms longitudinally or attempted to draw causal inferences. Using sensory evoked potential area measurements and transcranial magnetic stimulation derived map volume we analyzed somatosensory and motor cortex excitability in 120 adults experiencing acute LBP. Following multivariable regression modelling with adjustment for confounding, we identified lower primary (OR = 2.08, 95% CI = 1.22-3.57) and secondary (OR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.37-4.76) somatosensory cortex excitability significantly increased the odds of developing chronic pain at 6-month follow-up. Corticomotor excitability in the acute stage of LBP was associated with higher pain intensity at 6-month follow-up (B = -0.15, 95% CI: -0.28 to -0.02) but this association did not remain after confounder adjustment. These data provide evidence that low somatosensory cortex excitability in the acute stage of LBP is a cause of chronic pain. PERSPECTIVE: This prospective longitudinal cohort study design identified low sensorimotor cortex excitability during the acute stage of LBP in people who developed chronic pain. Interventions that target this proposed mechanism may be relevant to the prevention of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke C Jenkins
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wei-Ju Chang
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Valentina Buscemi
- INPUT Pain Management Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Matthew Liston
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, Kings College, London
| | - Patrick Skippen
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aidan G Cashin
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia; Prince of Wales Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James H McAuley
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Siobhan M Schabrun
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.
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31
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Cashin AG, Lee H, Bagg MK, Wand BM, O'Hagan E, Rizzo RRN, Stanton TR, Moseley GL, McAuley JH. Investigating the Mechanisms of Graded Sensorimotor Precision Training in Adults With Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: Protocol for a Causal Mediation Analysis of the RESOLVE Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e26053. [PMID: 34255720 PMCID: PMC8285749 DOI: 10.2196/26053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a global health problem associated with an increasing burden on individuals, health care systems, and society. Common treatments for people with CLBP produce, on average, small short-term improvements in pain and function compared with minimal care. The RESOLVE trial randomly allocated 276 people with CLBP to a new complex treatment strategy, pain education integrated with graded sensorimotor precision training (RESOLVE), or a sham control. The RESOLVE treatment was developed within a theoretical framework to target possible treatment mechanisms associated with CLBP development and persistence. Objective This protocol describes the planned evaluation of these proposed treatment mechanisms. Improved understanding of the mechanisms underpinning the RESOLVE treatment may guide its refinement and implementation. Methods We will use causal mediation analysis to evaluate the proposed treatment mechanisms, including pain self-efficacy, back beliefs, pain catastrophizing, kinesiophobia, back perception, tactile acuity, and movement coordination. The primary outcomes are pain intensity and function at 18 weeks following allocation. Data were collected blind to allocation and hypotheses at baseline (mediators, outcomes, confounders), end of treatment (mediators), and at 18 weeks following allocation (outcomes). We will test the robustness of our findings by conducting planned sensitivity analyses. Results Ethical approval was granted by the University of New South Wales Human Research Ethics Committee (HC15357). A total of 276 participants have been recruited from primary care practices and the community in Sydney, Australia. Conclusions The RESOLVE treatment constitutes a new paradigm for CLBP management with potentially wide-reaching implications. This mechanistic evaluation will provide evidence for the hypothesized treatment mechanisms and help explain why the treatment strategy did or did not have an effect on patient-reported outcomes. These results will help guide the treatment refinement and implementation. Trial Registration Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12615000610538; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=368619&isReview=true International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/26053
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan G Cashin
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia.,Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hopin Lee
- Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit and Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Matthew K Bagg
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia.,Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Benedict M Wand
- School of Physiotherapy, The University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Australia
| | - Edel O'Hagan
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia.,Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rodrigo R N Rizzo
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia.,School of Health Sciences, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Tasha R Stanton
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - G Lorimer Moseley
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - James H McAuley
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia.,School of Health Sciences, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
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32
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Patricio P, Roy JS, Rohel A, Gariépy C, Émond C, Hamel É, Massé-Alarie H. The Effect of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation to Reduce Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin J Pain 2021; 37:475-485. [PMID: 33949359 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted a systematic review/meta-analysis to evaluate noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) efficacy to alleviate pain and improve disability in low back pain (LBP). MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic literature search was performed by a librarian in MEDLINE, Embase, EBM Reviews, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases (last search: January 14, 2021). Data were pooled by the number of sessions and follow-up periods. Independent reviewers performed screening, data extraction, and risk of bias. Pain reduction and disability were used as outcomes. RESULTS Twelve articles were included in the qualitative synthesis and 8 in the meta-analysis. A single session of NIBS reduced pain compared with sham (standardized mean difference: -0.47; P<0.001; very low-quality evidence). Repeated sessions of NIBS did not impact pain at short-term (mean difference [MD]: -0.31; P=0.23) or midterm (MD: -0.56; P=0.33; moderate quality evidence). Combining NIBS with cointerventions did not influence pain (MD: -0.31; P=0.30; moderate quality evidence). NIBS did not have a statistically significant impact on disability. DISCUSSION There is very low-quality evidence suggesting that a single NIBS session reduces LBP intensity. In contrast, there is moderate quality evidence that repeated NIBS sessions or combination with cointervention did not improve pain or disability. Thus, current results do not support NIBS use to treat chronic LBP. Considering that tDCS was tested in 8 of 12 studies with little success, studies focusing on different NIBS techniques or innovative parameters are required to determine their potential to improve pain and disability in chronic LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Patricio
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Roy
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Antoine Rohel
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Cynthia Gariépy
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University
| | - Camille Émond
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University
| | - Élodie Hamel
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University
| | - Hugo Massé-Alarie
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Jiang N, Wang L, Huang Z, Li G. Mapping Responses of Lumbar Paravertebral Muscles to Single-Pulse Cortical TMS Using High-Density Surface Electromyography. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2021; 29:831-840. [PMID: 33905333 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2021.3076095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Motor evoked potential (MEP), which was elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), has been widely used to detect corticospinal projection from TMS cortical site to trunk muscles. It can help to find the stimulation hotspot in the scalp. However, it fails to precisely describe coordinated activities of trunk muscle groups with only single-channel myoelectric signal. In this study, we aimed to use high-density surface electromyography (sEMG) to explore the effect of cortical TMS on lumbar paravertebral muscles in healthy subjects. The cortical site at 1 cm anterior and 4 cm lateral to vertex was chosen to simulate using a single-pulse TMS with different intensities and forward-bending angles. A high-density electrode array (45 channels) was placed on the surface of lumbar paravertebral muscles to record sEMG signals during a TMS experiment. MEP signals elicited by TMS were extracted from 45-channel recordings and one topographic map of the MEP amplitudes with six spatial features was constructed at each sampling point. The results showed TMS could successfully evoke an oval area with high intensity in the MEP topographic map, while this area mainly located in ipsilateral side of the TMS site. Intensity features related to the high intensity area rose significantly with TMS intensity and forward-bending angle increasing, but location features showed no change. The optimal stimulation parameters were 80% of maximum stimulator output (MSO) for TMS intensity and 30/60 degree for forward-bending angle. This study provided a potentially effective mapping tool to explore the hotspot for transcranial stimulation on trunk muscles.
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Noninvasive Neuromodulation Techniques in Difficult Tracheostomy Weaning of Patients With Spinal Cord Injury: Report of Two Cases. Chest 2021; 159:e299-e302. [PMID: 33965152 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2020.11.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
High spinal cord injured patients (SCI) are susceptible to respiratory muscle impairments. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and peripheral electrical stimulation (PES) may influence the diaphragm's central control, but until now they are not described as a therapeutic resource for difficult weaning. We present two case reports of SCI patients (P1 and P2) with long-term tracheostomy (>40 days) and hospital stay (>50 days). In association with respiratory exercise, P1 received a combined application of anodal tDCS over the supplementary motor area plus sensory PES in the thoracic-abdominal muscles, and P2 received isolated excitatory PES in the abdominal muscles, applied daily except on weekends. Maximum inspiratory/expiratory pressure, peak cough flow, diaphragm excursion, and thickening fraction were measured in the first and last days of the protocol. Both patients had improvements, with clinical impact such as cough effectiveness, decannulated after 15 applications of stimulation. Augmentation of neural respiratory drive and corticospinal excitability is suggested.
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Liu Z, Dong S, Zhong S, Huang F, Zhang C, Zhou Y, Deng H. The effect of combined transcranial pulsed current stimulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on lower limb spasticity in children with spastic cerebral palsy: a randomized and controlled clinical study. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:141. [PMID: 33761932 PMCID: PMC7989146 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02615-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the current study, we applied a combination of non-invasive neuromodulation modalities concurrently with multiple stimulating electrodes. Specifically, we used transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) as a novel strategy for improving lower limb spasticity in children with spastic cerebral palsy (SCP) categorized on levels III-V of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) with minimal side effects. METHODS Sixty-three SCP children aged 2-12 years, who were classified on levels III-V of the GMFCS were randomly assigned to one of two groups, resulting in 32 children in the experimental group and 31 children in the control group. The experimental group underwent a combination therapy of tPCS (400 Hz, 1 mA cerebello-cerebral stimulation) and TENS (400 Hz, max 10 mA) for 30 min, followed by 30 min of physiotherapy five times per week for 12 weeks. The control group underwent physiotherapy only 30 mins per day five times per week for 12 weeks. In total, all groups underwent 60 treatment sessions. The primary outcome measures were the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS). Evaluations were performed 3 days before and after treatment. RESULTS We found a significant improvement in MAS and MTS scores of the lower limbs in the experimental group compared to the control group in the hip adductors (Left: p = 0.002; Right: p = 0.002), hamstrings (Left: p = 0.001; Right: p < 0.001, and gastrocnemius (Left: p = 0.001; Right: p = 0.000). Moreover, MTS scores of R1, R2 and R2-R1 in left and right hip adduction, knee joint, and ankle joint all showed significant improvements (p ≤ 0.05). Analysis of MAS and MTS scores compared to baseline scores showed significant improvements in the experimental group but declines in the control group. CONCLUSION These results are among the first to demonstrate that a combination of tPCS and TENS can significantly improve lower limb spasticity in SCP children classified on GMFCS levels III-V with minimal side effects, presenting a novel strategy for addressing spasticity challenges in children with severe SCP. TRIAL REGISTRATION ChiCTR.org, ChiCTR1800020283, Registration: 22 December 2018 (URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=33953 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhuan Liu
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Nanhai Maternity and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Shangsheng Dong
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Jiangmen Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Jiangmen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sandra Zhong
- Guangzhou Yirui Charitable Foundation, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fang Huang
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Guangzhou City Social Welfare Institute Rehabilitation Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chuntao Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Nanhai Maternity and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Nanhai Maternity and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Haorong Deng
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Guangzhou City Social Welfare Institute Rehabilitation Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Larrivée S, Balg F, Léonard G, Bédard S, Tousignant M, Boissy P. Transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tCDS) after subacromial injections in patients with subacromial pain syndrome: a randomized controlled pilot study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2021; 22:265. [PMID: 33706729 PMCID: PMC7948354 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04139-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS) is a common complaint in orthopaedics. Subacromial corticosteroid injections (CSI) can relieve pain in the short term. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) has been used for symptomatic pain relief in a variety of chronic pain conditions. The aim of this pilot study was to assess whether the application a-tDCS could enhance the symptomatic relief provided by CSI in patients affected by SAPS. METHODS Thirty-eight participants (18 to 65-year-old) suffering from SAPS were recruited to have a CSI and randomly allocated to receive, 1 weeks post CSI, real a-tDCS (r-tDCS), sham tDCS (s-tDCS) or no intervention (Control). Upper limb function was measured 1 week prior to the CSI, at the 2- and 4-week follow-ups using self-administered questionnaires and physical measures. Self-reported pain and activity during each day were logged by the participants using visual analog scales (VAS). Differences between groups were tested using repeated-measures ANOVAs. RESULTS Pain VAS and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation scale (SANE) showed significant improvement from baseline 2 weeks and 4 weeks after CSI in all groups (p < 0.05). There were no significant group X time interaction 2 weeks following tDCS treatment in any of the variables. CONCLUSION All groups showed significant improvement in pain VAS and SANE scores following the CSI. One session of a-tDCS treatment 2 weeks following CSI did not result in any additive or potentializing effects when compared to a s-tDCS or a control group. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03967574 . Registered 30 May 2019 - Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Larrivée
- Research Center on Aging CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Frédéric Balg
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Research Center CRCHUS, CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Guillaume Léonard
- Research Center on Aging CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Sonia Bédard
- Research Center CRCHUS, CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Michel Tousignant
- Research Center on Aging CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick Boissy
- Research Center on Aging CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
- Research Center CRCHUS, CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
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Motor cortex transcranial direct current stimulation effects on knee osteoarthritis pain in elderly subjects with dysfunctional descending pain inhibitory system: A randomized controlled trial. Brain Stimul 2021; 14:477-487. [PMID: 33684598 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2021.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although evidence has indicated a positive effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on reducing pain, few studies have focused on the elderly population with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether tDCS reduces KOA pain in elderly individuals with a dysfunctional descending pain inhibitory system (DPIS). METHODS In a double-blind trial, individuals ≥ 60 years with KOA pain and a dysfunctional DPIS, we randomly assigned patients to receive 15 daily sessions of 2 mA tDCS over the primary motor cortex (anode) and contralateral supraorbital area (cathode) (M1-SO) for 20 min or sham tDCS. Change in pain perception indexed by the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) at the end of intervention was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included: disability, quantitative sensory testing, pain pressure threshold and conditioned pain modulation (CPM). Subjects were followed-up for 2 months. RESULTS Of the 104 enrolled subjects, with mean (SD) age of 73.9 (8.01) years and 88 (84.6%) female, 102 finished the trial. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the active tDCS group had a significantly greater reduction in BPI compared to the sham group (difference, 1.59; 95% CI, 0.95 to 2.23; P < 0.001; Cohen's d, 0.58); and, also a significantly greater improvement in CPM-pressure in the knee (P = 0.01) and CPM-pain in the hand (P = 0.01). These effects were not sustained at follow-up. The intervention was well tolerated, with no severe adverse effects. CONCLUSION M1-SO tDCS is associated with a moderate effect size in reducing pain in elderly patients with KOA after 15 daily sessions of stimulation. This intervention has also shown to modulate the DPIS.
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Azizi S, Rezasoltani Z, Najafi S, Mohebi B, Tabatabaee SM, Dadarkhah A. Transcranial direct current stimulation for knee osteoarthritis: a single-blind randomized sham-controlled trial. Neurophysiol Clin 2020; 51:329-338. [PMID: 33323306 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on pain and other symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. METHODS We performed a single-blind randomized sham-controlled trial with two parallel arms in an outpatient clinic of physical medicine and rehabilitation at a teaching hospital. We randomized 54 patients, 30-70 years of age, with knee osteoarthritis into two groups. They had morning stiffness ≤ 30 min, knee pain ≥ 3 months, joint crepitus, and Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1 or 2 on radiographs. For the active stimulation we administered 2 mA current, 20 min for each session and for the sham group 30 s stimulation and 20 min no current. Using the 10/20 International EEG system, the anode was fixed over the contralateral primary motor cortex (C3 or C4), and the cathode was placed on the ipsilateral supraorbital region (Fp1 or Fp2), with respect to the included knee. The program was repeated once daily over 5 consecutive days. Both groups received acetaminophen. We assessed the patients before and after the interventions, and three months post-intervention. The primary outcome was knee pain on the visual analog scale, and the secondary outcome was the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. RESULTS There was a statistically significant reduction in the intensity of pain within sham and active groups (both p < 0.001), but no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.226). Analyses of the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores showed no clinically important changes. CONCLUSIONS Transcranial direct current stimulation does not reduce knee pain, does not abate other symptoms, and does not restore knee function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The pain reduction in our study could be attributed to either placebo or the acetaminophen effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirous Azizi
- Clinical Biomechanics and Ergonomics Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Etemadzadeh St, Western Fatemi, Tehran, 1411718541 Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Zahra Rezasoltani
- Clinical Biomechanics and Ergonomics Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Etemadzadeh St, Western Fatemi, Tehran, 1411718541 Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sharif Najafi
- Clinical Biomechanics and Ergonomics Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Etemadzadeh St, Western Fatemi, Tehran, 1411718541 Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Bahare Mohebi
- Clinical Biomechanics and Ergonomics Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Etemadzadeh St, Western Fatemi, Tehran, 1411718541 Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Seyed Morteza Tabatabaee
- Clinical Biomechanics and Ergonomics Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Etemadzadeh St, Western Fatemi, Tehran, 1411718541 Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Afsaneh Dadarkhah
- Clinical Biomechanics and Ergonomics Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Etemadzadeh St, Western Fatemi, Tehran, 1411718541 Islamic Republic of Iran.
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Lloyd DM, Wittkopf PG, Arendsen LJ, Jones AK. Is Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Effective for the Treatment of Pain in Fibromyalgia? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2020; 21:1085-1100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Randomized clinical trial comparing of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in knee osteoarthritis. Neurophysiol Clin 2020; 50:367-374. [PMID: 32912627 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the limitations of pharmacological and surgical management of knee osteoarthritis (OA), several non-pharmacologic approaches including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have been introduced, with promising results. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate and compare the therapeutic effects of TENS and tDCS for the treatment of patients with knee OA. METHODS In this double-blinded randomized controlled trial, a total of 40 adult patients with knee OA were randomly allocated to either the TENS or the tDCS group. Patients in either group received 6 sessions of the TENS or tDCS for 2 weeks. Knee strengthening exercises were performed twice daily for the entire treatment period. Patients were evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC). RESULTS Significant improvement was observed in all outcomes in both TENS and tDCS groups at each follow up compared to baseline although the early improvement (first follow-up) in the WOMAC index was not significant in the TENS group. Based on the within-subject analysis, the behavior of two treatment groups did not differ regarding the changes in the course of the VAS, WOMAC score and its subscales, i.e. stiffness, pain and function (p = 0.263, 0.051, 0.198, 0.075, and 0.146, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Based on the results of this study, the effect of tDCS and TENS was not significantly different on pain and function of patients with knee OA.
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Cavalcante PGL, Baptista AF, Cardoso VS, Filgueiras MDC, Hasue RH, João SMA, Hazime FA. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined With Therapeutic Exercise in Chronic Low Back Pain: Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Phys Ther 2020; 100:1595-1602. [PMID: 32526017 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzaa105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although some studies have shown the clinical benefits of therapeutic exercise in chronic nonspecific low back pain, the effect sizes are generally small to moderate and recurrence rates are high. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been used to modulate pain-processing systems and motor outputs and has the potential to optimize the clinical benefits of therapeutic exercise. However, evidence for this combination is still lacking. The purpose of this protocol for a randomized clinical trial is to investigate whether the combination of tDCS and therapeutic exercise is more effective in relieving pain than therapeutic exercise alone. METHODS This 2-arm, randomized controlled clinical trial will take place at the Federal University of Piauí, Brazil. Sixty patients will be randomized into 2 groups to receive tDCS (real/sham) + exercise therapies for 12 sessions over a period of 4 weeks. Pain intensity, sensory and affective aspects of pain, physical functioning, kinesiophobia, and global perceived effect will be recorded before treatment and at 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after randomization. Data will be collected by an examiner unaware of (blind to) the treatment allocation. IMPACT This trial can potentially provide important information and assist in clinical decision-making on the combined use of tDCS to optimize the clinical benefits of therapeutic exercise in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abrahão Fontes Baptista
- Center for Mathematics, Computation and Cognition, Universidade Federal do ABC, São Bernardo do Campo, SP - Brazil
| | - Vinícius Saura Cardoso
- Department of Physical Therapy, Biomedical Master Science Program, Universidade Federal do Piaui
| | | | - Renata Hydee Hasue
- Department of Physical Therapy, Communication Sciences and Disorders, and Occupational Therapy, Doctoral Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo - USP, São Paulo, SP - Brazil
| | - Silvia Maria Amado João
- Department of Physical Therapy, Communication Sciences and Disorders, and Occupational Therapy, Doctoral Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo
| | - Fuad Ahmad Hazime
- Department of Physical Therapy, Biomedical Master Science Program, Universidade Federal do Piaui, Parnaíba, Avenida São Sebastião, 2819, CEP: 64202-020 Parnaíba, PI - Brazil
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Arendsen LJ, Henshaw J, Brown CA, Sivan M, Taylor JR, Trujillo-Barreto NJ, Casson AJ, Jones AKP. Entraining Alpha Activity Using Visual Stimulation in Patients With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Feasibility Study. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:828. [PMID: 32973429 PMCID: PMC7468433 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Entraining alpha activity with rhythmic visual, auditory, and electrical stimulation can reduce experimentally induced pain. However, evidence for alpha entrainment and pain reduction in patients with chronic pain is limited. This feasibility study investigated whether visual alpha stimulation can increase alpha power in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain and, secondarily, if chronic pain was reduced following stimulation. In a within-subject design, 20 patients underwent 4-min periods of stimulation at 10 Hz (alpha), 7 Hz (high-theta, control), and 1 Hz (control) in a pseudo-randomized order. Patients underwent stimulation both sitting and standing and verbally rated their pain before and after each stimulation block on a 0-10 numerical rating scale. Global alpha power was significantly higher during 10 Hz compared to 1 Hz stimulation when patients were standing (t = -6.08, p < 0.001). On a more regional level, a significant increase of alpha power was found for 10 Hz stimulation in the right-middle and left-posterior region when patients were sitting. With respect to our secondary aim, no significant reduction of pain intensity and unpleasantness was found. However, only the alpha stimulation resulted in a minimal clinically important difference in at least 50% of participants for pain intensity (50%) and unpleasantness ratings (65%) in the sitting condition. This study provides initial evidence for the potential of visual stimulation as a means to enhance alpha activity in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The brief period of stimulation was insufficient to reduce chronic pain significantly. This study is the first to provide evidence that a brief period of visual stimulation at alpha frequency can significantly increase alpha power in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. A further larger study is warranted to investigate optimal dose and individual stimulation parameters to achieve pain relief in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J. Arendsen
- Division of Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery, Eberhart Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - James Henshaw
- Human Pain Research Group, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher A. Brown
- Human Pain Research Group, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Manoj Sivan
- Human Pain Research Group, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Jason R. Taylor
- Human Pain Research Group, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Nelson J. Trujillo-Barreto
- Human Pain Research Group, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander J. Casson
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony K. P. Jones
- Human Pain Research Group, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Singer A, Dutta S, Lewis E, Chen Z, Chen JC, Verma N, Avants B, Feldman AK, O'Malley J, Beierlein M, Kemere C, Robinson JT. Magnetoelectric Materials for Miniature, Wireless Neural Stimulation at Therapeutic Frequencies. Neuron 2020; 107:631-643.e5. [PMID: 32516574 PMCID: PMC7818389 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
A major challenge for miniature bioelectronics is wireless power delivery deep inside the body. Electromagnetic or ultrasound waves suffer from absorption and impedance mismatches at biological interfaces. On the other hand, magnetic fields do not suffer these losses, which has led to magnetically powered bioelectronic implants based on induction or magnetothermal effects. However, these approaches have yet to produce a miniature stimulator that operates at clinically relevant high frequencies. Here, we show that an alternative wireless power method based on magnetoelectric (ME) materials enables miniature magnetically powered neural stimulators that operate up to clinically relevant frequencies in excess of 100 Hz. We demonstrate that wireless ME stimulators provide therapeutic deep brain stimulation in a freely moving rodent model for Parkinson's disease and that these devices can be miniaturized to millimeter-scale and fully implanted. These results suggest that ME materials are an excellent candidate to enable miniature bioelectronics for clinical and research applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Singer
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Shayok Dutta
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Eric Lewis
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Ziying Chen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Joshua C Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Nishant Verma
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Benjamin Avants
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Ariel K Feldman
- Department of Computer Science, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Cognitive Science, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - John O'Malley
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Michael Beierlein
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Caleb Kemere
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Jacob T Robinson
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Cavaleri R, Chipchase LS, Massé-Alarie H, Schabrun SM, Shraim MA, Hodges PW. Corticomotor reorganization during short-term visuomotor training in the lower back: A randomized controlled study. Brain Behav 2020; 10:e01702. [PMID: 32633899 PMCID: PMC7428511 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Accumulating evidence suggests that motor skill training is associated with structural and functional reorganization of the primary motor cortex. However, previous studies have focussed primarily upon the upper limb, and it is unclear whether comparable reorganization occurs following training of other regions, such as the lower back. Although this holds important implications for rehabilitation, no studies have examined corticomotor adaptations following short-term motor training in the lower back. METHOD The aims of this study were to (a) determine whether a short-term lumbopelvic tilt visuomotor task induced reorganization of the corticomotor representations of lower back muscles, (b) quantify the variability of corticomotor responses to motor training, and (c) determine whether any improvements in task performance were correlated with corticomotor reorganization. Participants were allocated randomly to perform a lumbopelvic tilt motor training task (n = 15) or a finger abduction control task involving no lumbopelvic movement (n = 15). Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to map corticomotor representations of the lumbar erector spinae before, during, and after repeated performance of the allocated task. RESULTS No relationship between corticomotor reorganization and improved task performance was identified. Substantial variability was observed in terms of corticomotor responses to motor training, with approximately 50% of participants showing no corticomotor reorganization despite significant improvements in task performance. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that short-term improvements in lower back visuomotor task performance may be driven by changes in remote subcortical and/or spinal networks rather than adaptations in corticomotor pathways. However, further research using tasks of varying complexities and durations is required to confirm this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocco Cavaleri
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lucy S Chipchase
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia.,College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Hugo Massé-Alarie
- CIRRIS Research Centre, Department of Rehabilitation, Laval University, Quebec, Canada.,Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Muath A Shraim
- Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul W Hodges
- Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Alwardat M, Pisani A, Etoom M, Carpenedo R, Chinè E, Dauri M, Leonardis F, Natoli S. Is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) effective for chronic low back pain? A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2020; 127:1257-1270. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-020-02223-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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46
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Bagg MK, Lo S, Cashin AG, Herbert RD, O'Connell NE, Lee H, Hübscher M, Wand BM, O'Hagan E, Rizzo RRN, Moseley GL, Stanton TR, Maher CG, Goodall S, Saing S, McAuley JH. The RESOLVE Trial for people with chronic low back pain: statistical analysis plan. Braz J Phys Ther 2020; 25:103-111. [PMID: 32811786 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2020.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statistical analysis plans describe the planned data management and analysis for clinical trials. This supports transparent reporting and interpretation of clinical trial results. This paper reports the statistical analysis plan for the RESOLVE clinical trial. The RESOLVE trial assigned participants with chronic low back pain to graded sensory-motor precision training or sham-control. RESULTS We report the planned data management and analysis for the primary and secondary outcomes. The primary outcome is pain intensity at 18-weeks post randomization. We will use mixed-effects models to analyze the primary and secondary outcomes by intention-to-treat. We will report adverse effects in full. We also describe analyses if there is non-adherence to the interventions, data management procedures, and our planned reporting of results. CONCLUSION This statistical analysis plan will minimize the potential for bias in the analysis and reporting of results from the RESOLVE trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION ACTRN12615000610538 (https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=368619).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K Bagg
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Prince of Wales Hospital Campus, Sydney, Australia; New College Village, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Serigne Lo
- Melanoma Institute Australia, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Aidan G Cashin
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Prince of Wales Hospital Campus, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rob D Herbert
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Neil E O'Connell
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hopin Lee
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Windmill Road, Headington, United Kingdom; School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Markus Hübscher
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Benedict M Wand
- School of Physiotherapy, The University of Notre Dame Australia Fremantle, Perth, Australia
| | - Edel O'Hagan
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Prince of Wales Hospital Campus, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rodrigo R N Rizzo
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - G Lorimer Moseley
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, City East Campus, Australia
| | - Tasha R Stanton
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, City East Campus, Australia
| | - Christopher G Maher
- Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephen Goodall
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sopany Saing
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - James H McAuley
- Centre for Pain IMPACT, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia; School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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The Analgesic Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) combined with Physical Therapy on Common Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 6:23-26. [PMID: 32766451 DOI: 10.21801/ppcrj.2020.61.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The analgesic effects of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) combined with physical therapy remain unclear. OBJECTIVE To systematically review available evidence comparing tDCS with any physical therapy modality (PTM) to PTM alone or PTM with sham tDCS on pain relief on common musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, namely knee osteoarthritis (KOA), chronic low back pain (CLBP), myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and fibromyalgia. METHODS EMBASE and MEDLINE were searched from inception to April 2019 for randomized controlled trials. Reviewers independently assessed the studies quality and extracted data according to the PRISMA protocol. The GRADE approach was used to asses quality of evidence and a "Summary of Findings" table was created. The analyses used random-effects model. The primary outcome was pain reduction after treatment. RESULTS Eight articles were included. Only one study had low risk of bias. Quality of evidence was considered low or very low. Significant reduction in pain scores were found for fibromyalgia and KOA (Standardized mean difference (SMD) = -1.94 [95% CI: -3.37 to -0.49; I 2=76.4%] and SMD = -2.35 [95% CI: -3.63 to -1.06; I 2=69.7%] respectively). Subgroup analysis considering the type of PTM despite MSK condition revealed significant reduction in pain scores for exercise, SMD = -1.20 [95% CI: -1.683 to -0.717; I 2=10.8%]. CONCLUSIONS Large heterogeneity and low quality of evidence and limited number of studies were found. Results suggest a potential analgesic effect of tDCS in combination with a PTM for fibromyalgia and KOA. Subgroup analysis suggests a stronger effect of tDCS when combined with an exercise based PTM.
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Meeker TJ, Jupudi R, Lenz FA, Greenspan JD. New Developments in Non-invasive Brain Stimulation in Chronic Pain. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2020; 8:280-292. [PMID: 33473332 DOI: 10.1007/s40141-020-00260-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The goal of this review is to present a summary of the recent literature of a non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) to alleviate pain in people with chronic pain syndromes. This article reviews the current evidence for the use of transcranial direct current (tDCS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to improve outcomes in chronic pain. Finally, we introduce the reader to novel stimulation methods that may improve therapeutic outcomes in chronic pain. Recent Findings While tDCS is approved for treatment of fibromyalgia in Canada and the European Union, no NIBS method is currently approved for chronic pain in the United States. Increasing sample sizes in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) seems the most efficient way to increase confidence in initial promising results. Trends at funding agencies reveal increased interest and support for NIBS such as recent Requests for Application from the National Institutes of Health. NIBS in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy and physical therapy may enhance outcomes in chronic pain. Novel stimulation methods, such as transcranial ultrasound stimulation, await rigorous study in chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Meeker
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Dept. of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, and Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Univ. of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rithvic Jupudi
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Frederik A Lenz
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joel D Greenspan
- Dept. of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, and Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, Univ. of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Houde F, Harvey MP, Tremblay Labrecque PF, Lamarche F, Lefebvre A, Leonard G. Combining Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation to Relieve Persistent Pain in a Patient Suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Case Report. J Pain Res 2020; 13:467-473. [PMID: 32184651 PMCID: PMC7060070 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s226616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a rare neuropathic pain condition characterized by sensory, motor and autonomic alterations. Previous investigations have shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can alleviate pain in various populations, and that a combination of these treatments could provide greater hypoalgesic effects. In the present case report, we describe the effect of tDCS and TENS treatment on pain intensity and unpleasantness in a patient suffering from chronic CRPS. RESULTS The patient was a 37-year-old woman, suffering from left lower limb CRPS (type I) for more than 5 years. Despite medication (pregabalin, tapentadol, duloxetine), rehabilitation treatments (sensorimotor retraining, graded motor imagery) and spinal cord stimulation (SCS), the participant reported moderate to severe pain. Treatments of tDCS alone (performed with SCS turned off during tDCS application, 1 session/day, for 5 consecutive days) did not significantly decrease pain. Combining tDCS with TENS (SCS temporarily turned off during tDCS, 1 session/day, for 5 consecutive days) slightly reduced pain intensity and unpleasantness. DISCUSSION Our results suggest that combining tDCS and TENS could be a therapeutic strategy worth investigating further to relieve pain in chronic CRPS patients. Future studies should examine the efficacy of combined tDCS and TENS treatments in CRPS patients, and other chronic pain conditions, with special attention to the cumulative and long-term effects and its effect on function and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Houde
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Marie-Philippe Harvey
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Pierre-François Tremblay Labrecque
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Francis Lamarche
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Alexandra Lefebvre
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Guillaume Leonard
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
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Jiang N, Wei J, Li G, Wei B, Zhu FF, Hu Y. Effect of dry-electrode-based transcranial direct current stimulation on chronic low back pain and low back muscle activities: A double-blind sham-controlled study. Restor Neurol Neurosci 2020; 38:41-54. [DOI: 10.3233/rnn-190922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naifu Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Human-Machine Intelligence-Synergy Systems, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- The Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Neural Rehabilitation Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jinsong Wei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Spinal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Guangsheng Li
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Department of Orthopaedics, Spinal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Bo Wei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Spinal Division, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Frank F. Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yong Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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