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Tang X, Zhang N, Shen Z, Guo X, Xing J, Tian S, Xing Y. Transcranial direct current stimulation for upper extremity motor dysfunction in poststroke patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil 2024; 38:749-769. [PMID: 38425282 DOI: 10.1177/02692155241235336] [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] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transcranial direct current stimulation in poststroke patients with upper extremity motor dysfunction using a systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES We searched the Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and PubMed for randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of both active and sham stimulation up until January 27, 2024. REVIEW METHODS Efficacy, including the upper extremity Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Action Research Arm Test, Barthel Index, and safety, were assessed. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale. Meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.4 software. RESULTS Forty-four studies with 1555 participants were included. Transcranial direct current stimulation proved effective in improving upper extremity motor function (standardized mean difference = 0.22, 95% confidence interval: 0.12-0.32, P < 0.001) and Barthel Index (mean difference = 4.65, 95% confidence interval: 2.82-6.49, P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed the highest transcranial direct current stimulation efficacy in patients with subacute stroke. Both anodal and cathodal stimulation were effective against upper extremity motor dysfunction. C3/C4 was the most effective stimulus target. Optimal stimulation parameters included stimulus current densities <0.057 mA/cm2 for 20-30 min and <30 sessions. Adverse effects and dropouts during follow-up showed that transcranial direct current stimulation is safe and feasible. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that both anodal and cathodal stimulation were significantly effective in subacute stroke patients, particularly when preceding other treatments and when C3/C4 is targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Tang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of Neurology, Hebei Hospital, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Psychiatric-Psychologic Disease, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Zhiyuan Shen
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of Neurology, Hebei Hospital, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Neuromedical Technology Innovation Center of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xin Guo
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of Neurology, Hebei Hospital, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Neuromedical Technology Innovation Center of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jun Xing
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Neuromedical Technology Innovation Center of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Shujuan Tian
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of Neurology, Hebei Hospital, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Neuromedical Technology Innovation Center of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yuan Xing
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of Neurology, Hebei Hospital, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Neuromedical Technology Innovation Center of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Miraglia F, Pappalettera C, Barbati SA, Podda MV, Grassi C, Rossini PM, Vecchio F. Brain complexity in stroke recovery after bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation in mice. Brain Commun 2024; 6:fcae137. [PMID: 38741663 PMCID: PMC11089417 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcae137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. There are many different rehabilitation approaches aimed at improving clinical outcomes for stroke survivors. One of the latest therapeutic techniques is the non-invasive brain stimulation. Among non-invasive brain stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation has shown promising results in enhancing motor and cognitive recovery both in animal models of stroke and stroke survivors. In this framework, one of the most innovative methods is the bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation that simultaneously increases excitability in one hemisphere and decreases excitability in the contralateral one. As bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation can create a more balanced modulation of brain activity, this approach may be particularly useful in counteracting imbalanced brain activity, such as in stroke. Given these premises, the aim of the current study has been to explore the recovery after stroke in mice that underwent a bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation treatment, by recording their electric brain activity with local field potential and by measuring behavioural outcomes of Grip Strength test. An innovative parameter that explores the complexity of signals, namely the Entropy, recently adopted to describe brain activity in physiopathological states, was evaluated to analyse local field potential data. Results showed that stroke mice had higher values of Entropy compared to healthy mice, indicating an increase in brain complexity and signal disorder due to the stroke. Additionally, the bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation reduced Entropy in both healthy and stroke mice compared to sham stimulated mice, with a greater effect in stroke mice. Moreover, correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between Entropy and Grip Strength values, indicating that higher Entropy values resulted in lower Grip Strength engagement. Concluding, the current evidence suggests that the Entropy index of brain complexity characterizes stroke pathology and recovery. Together with this, bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation can modulate brain rhythms in animal models of stroke, providing potentially new avenues for rehabilitation in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Miraglia
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele, 00163, Rome, Italy
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, Novedrate, 22060, Como, Italy
| | - Chiara Pappalettera
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele, 00163, Rome, Italy
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, Novedrate, 22060, Como, Italy
| | - Saviana Antonella Barbati
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Podda
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Grassi
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Maria Rossini
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele, 00163, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vecchio
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele, 00163, Rome, Italy
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, Novedrate, 22060, Como, Italy
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Ahmed I, Mustafaoglu R, Rossi S, Cavdar FA, Agyenkwa SK, Pang MYC, Straudi S. Non-invasive Brain Stimulation Techniques for the Improvement of Upper Limb Motor Function and Performance in Activities of Daily Living After Stroke: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 104:1683-1697. [PMID: 37245690 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2023.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation (NiBS) such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), theta-burst stimulation (TBS), and transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) in upper limb stroke rehabilitation. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched from January 2010 to June 2022. DATA SELECTION Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of "tDCS", "rTMS", "TBS", or "taVNS" on upper limb motor function and performance in activities of daily livings (ADLs) after stroke. DATA EXTRACTION Data were extracted by 2 independent reviewers. Risk of bias was evaluated with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. DATA SYNTHESIS 87 RCTs with 3750 participants were included. Pairwise meta-analysis showed that all NiBS except continuous TBS (cTBS) and cathodal tDCS were significantly more efficacious than sham stimulation for motor function (standardized mean difference [SMD] range 0.42-1.20), whereas taVNS, anodal tDCS, and both low and high frequency rTMS were significantly more efficacious than sham stimulation for ADLs (SMD range 0.54-0.99). NMA showed that taVNS was more effective than cTBS (SMD:1.00; 95% CI (0.02-2.02)), cathodal tDCS (SMD:1.07; 95% CI (0.21-1.92)), and Physical rehabilitation alone (SMD:1.46; 95% CI (0.59-2.33)) for improving motor function. P-score found that taVNS is best ranked treatment in improving motor function (SMD: 1.20; 95% CI (0.46-1.95)) and ADLs (SMD:1.20; 95% CI (0.45-1.94)) after stroke. After taVNS, excitatory stimulation protocols (intermittent TBS, anodal tDCS, and HF-rTMS) are most effective in improving motor function and ADLs after acute/sub-acute (SMD range 0.53-1.63) and chronic stroke (SMD range 0.39-1.16). CONCLUSIONS Evidence suggests that excitatory stimulation protocols are the most promising intervention in improving upper limb motor function and performance in ADLs. taVNS appeared to be a promising intervention for stroke patients, but further large RCTs are required to confirm its relative superiority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Ahmed
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Institute of Graduate Studies, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Rustem Mustafaoglu
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Simone Rossi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Neuroscience, Si-BIN Lab, Human Physiology Section, Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology Unit, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fatih A Cavdar
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Institute of Graduate Studies, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Istanbul, Turkey; Istanbul Okan University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Seth Kwame Agyenkwa
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Institute of Graduate Studies, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Marco Y C Pang
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Sofia Straudi
- Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Department, Ferrara University, Ferrara, Italy
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Youssef H, Mohamed NAEH, Hamdy M. Comparison of bihemispheric and unihemispheric M1 transcranial direct current stimulations during physical therapy in subacute stroke patients: A randomized controlled trial. Neurophysiol Clin 2023; 53:102895. [PMID: 37517104 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2023.102895] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the central origin of stroke affecting the primary motor cortex M1, most physical and occupational rehabilitation programs focus on peripheral treatments rather than addressing the central origin of the problem. This highlights the urgent need for effective protocols to improve neurological rehabilitation and achieve better long-term functional outcomes. OBJECTIVES Our hypothesis was that the bihemispheric delivery of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is superior to unihemispheric in enhancing motor function after stroke, in both the upper and lower extremities. METHODS 35 sub-acute ischemic stroke survivors were randomly divided into three groups: bihemispheric and unihemispheric treatment groups, or sham groups. Each participant received a 20-minute session of tDCS with an intensity of 2 mA during physical therapy sessions, three days a week, for four weeks. The outcomes were measured using Fugl-Meyer assessment scale, modified Ashworth scale, Berg balance scale, and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. RESULTS One-way ANOVA test indicated a significant effect of both treatment protocols on the upper extremity (p = < 0.001) and lower extremity (p = .034) for motor measures, but there was no difference between the two (p = .939). Kruskal Wallis test for spasticity showed a significant improvement in both treatment groups for elbow (p = .036) and wrist flexors (p = .025), compared to the sham group. However, there was no statistically significant difference in spasticity between uni- and bihemispheric stimulation for elbow (p = .731) or wrist flexors (p = .910). CONCLUSION There is no statistically significant difference in efficacy between bihemispheric and unihemispheric tDCS in patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Youssef
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, İstanbul, Türkiye; Department of Neuroscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt; Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Marmara University, İstanbul, Türkiye; Street Doctor, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | | | - Mohamed Hamdy
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Li KP, Wu JJ, Zhou ZL, Xu DS, Zheng MX, Hua XY, Xu JG. Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for Neurorehabilitation in Post-Stroke Patients. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13030451. [PMID: 36979261 PMCID: PMC10046557 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13030451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Characterized by high morbidity, mortality, and disability, stroke usually causes symptoms of cerebral hypoxia due to a sudden blockage or rupture of brain vessels, and it seriously threatens human life and health. Rehabilitation is the essential treatment for post-stroke patients suffering from functional impairments, through which hemiparesis, aphasia, dysphagia, unilateral neglect, depression, and cognitive dysfunction can be restored to various degrees. Noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) is a popular neuromodulatory technology of rehabilitation focusing on the local cerebral cortex, which can improve clinical functions by regulating the excitability of corresponding neurons. Increasing evidence has been obtained from the clinical application of NIBS, especially repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). However, without a standardized protocol, existing studies on NIBS show a wide variation in terms of stimulation site, frequency, intensity, dosage, and other parameters. Its application for neurorehabilitation in post-stroke patients is still limited. With advances in neuronavigation technologies, functional near-infrared spectroscopy, and functional MRI, specific brain regions can be precisely located for stimulation. On the basis of our further understanding on neural circuits, neuromodulation in post-stroke rehabilitation has also evolved from single-target stimulation to co-stimulation of two or more targets, even circuits and the network. The present study aims to review the findings of current research, discuss future directions of NIBS application, and finally promote the use of NIBS in post-stroke rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Peng Li
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jia-Jia Wu
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Zong-Lei Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Xu
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Mou-Xiong Zheng
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
- Correspondence: (M.-X.Z.); (X.-Y.H.); (J.-G.X.)
| | - Xu-Yun Hua
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
- Correspondence: (M.-X.Z.); (X.-Y.H.); (J.-G.X.)
| | - Jian-Guang Xu
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
- Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Intelligent Rehabilitation, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201203, China
- Correspondence: (M.-X.Z.); (X.-Y.H.); (J.-G.X.)
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6
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Hsu SP, Lu CF, Lin BF, Tang CW, Kuo IJ, Tsai YA, Guo CY, Lee PL, Shyu KK, Niddam DM, Lee IH. Effects of bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation on motor recovery in subacute stroke patients: a double-blind, randomized sham-controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:27. [PMID: 36849990 PMCID: PMC9969953 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01153-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the primary motor cortex (M1) can simultaneously modulate bilateral corticospinal excitability and interhemispheric interaction. However, how tDCS affects subacute stroke recovery remains unclear. We investigated the effects of bihemispheric tDCS on motor recovery in subacute stroke patients. METHODS We enrolled subacute inpatients who had first-ever ischemic stroke at subcortical regions and moderate-to-severe baseline Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) score 2-56. Participants between 14 and 28 days after stroke were double-blind, randomly assigned (1:1) to receive real (n = 13) or sham (n = 14) bihemispheric tDCS (with ipsilesional M1 anode and contralesional M1 cathode, 20 min, 2 mA) during task practice twice daily for 20 sessions in two weeks. Residual integrity of the ipsilesional corticospinal tract was stratified between groups. The primary efficacy outcome was the change in FMA-UE score from baseline (responder as an increase ≥ 10). The secondary measures included changes in the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), FMA-Lower Extremity (FMA-LE) and explorative resting-state MRI functional connectivity (FC) of target regions after intervention and three months post-stroke. RESULTS Twenty-seven participants completed the study without significant adverse effects. Nineteen patients (70%) had no recordable baseline motor-evoked potentials (MEP-negative) from the paretic forearm. Compared with the sham group, the real tDCS group showed enhanced improvement of FMA-UE after intervention (p < 0.01, effect size η2 = 0.211; responder rate: 77% vs. 36%, p = 0.031), which sustained three months post-stroke (p < 0.01), but not ARAT. Interestingly, in the MEP-negative subgroup analysis, the FMA-UE improvement remained but delayed. Additionally, the FMA-LE improvement after real tDCS was not significantly greater until three months post-stroke (p < 0.01). We found that the individual FMA-UE improvements after real tDCS were associated with bilateral intrahemispheric, rather than interhemispheric, FC strengths in the targeted cortices, while the improvements after sham tDCS were associated with predominantly ipsilesional FC changes after adjustment for age and sex (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Bihemispheric tDCS during task-oriented training may facilitate motor recovery in subacute stroke patients, even with compromised corticospinal tract integrity. Further studies are warranted for tDCS efficacy and network-specific neuromodulation. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov: (ID: NCT02731508).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Pin Hsu
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Division of Cerebrovascular Diseases, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shipai Rd., Beitou District, Taipei City, 11217, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Feng Lu
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Bing-Fong Lin
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Wei Tang
- Department of Neurology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - I-Ju Kuo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yun-An Tsai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Yu Guo
- Institute of Public Health, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Lei Lee
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Kai Shyu
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - David M Niddam
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Brain Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - I-Hui Lee
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan. .,Division of Cerebrovascular Diseases, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shipai Rd., Beitou District, Taipei City, 11217, Taiwan. .,Brain Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan.
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7
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Pires R, Baltar A, Sanchez MP, Antonino GB, Brito R, Berenguer-Rocha M, Monte-Silva K. Do Higher Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Doses Lead to Greater Gains in Upper Limb Motor Function in Post-Stroke Patients? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1279. [PMID: 36674035 PMCID: PMC9859554 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate whether a higher number of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) sessions results in a greater improvement in upper limb function in chronic post-stroke patients. Materials and methods: A randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind clinical trial was conducted in 57 chronic post-stroke patients (≥ 3 months after their injuries). The patients were allocated to receive sessions of tDCS combined with physiotherapy and divided into three groups (anodal, cathodal, and sham). The Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) was used to assess the sensorimotor impairment of the patients’ upper limbs before (baseline) and after five and ten sessions. The percentage of patients who achieved a clinically significant improvement (> five points on the FMA-UE) was also analyzed. Results: The FMA-UE score increased after five and ten sessions in both the anodal and cathodal tDCS groups, respectively, compared to the baseline. However, in the sham group, the FMA-UE score increased only after ten sessions. When compared to the sham group, the mean difference from the baseline after five sessions was higher in the anodal tDCS group. The percentage of individuals who achieved greater clinical improvement was higher in the stimulation groups than in the sham group and after ten sessions when compared to five sessions. Conclusions: Our results suggest that five tDCS sessions are sufficient to augment the effect of standard physiotherapy on upper limb function recovery in chronic post-stroke patients, and ten sessions resulted in greater gains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raylene Pires
- Applied Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-900, Brazil
| | - Adriana Baltar
- Applied Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-900, Brazil
- NAPeN Network (Núcleo de Assistência e Pesquisa em Neuromodulação), Recife 55540-00, Brazil
| | - Maria Paz Sanchez
- Applied Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Barreto Antonino
- Applied Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-900, Brazil
- NAPeN Network (Núcleo de Assistência e Pesquisa em Neuromodulação), Recife 55540-00, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Brito
- Applied Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-900, Brazil
- NAPeN Network (Núcleo de Assistência e Pesquisa em Neuromodulação), Recife 55540-00, Brazil
| | - Marina Berenguer-Rocha
- Applied Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-900, Brazil
| | - Katia Monte-Silva
- Applied Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-900, Brazil
- NAPeN Network (Núcleo de Assistência e Pesquisa em Neuromodulação), Recife 55540-00, Brazil
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8
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Garrido M M, Álvarez E E, Acevedo P F, Moyano V Á, Castillo N N, Cavada Ch G. Early transcranial direct current stimulation with modified constraint-induced movement therapy for motor and functional upper limb recovery in hospitalized patients with stroke: A randomized, multicentre, double-blind, clinical trial. Brain Stimul 2023; 16:40-47. [PMID: 36584748 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are used to reduce interhemispheric imbalance after stroke, which is why the combination of these therapies has been used for neurological recovery, but not in the acute phase. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of combining active or sham bihemispheric tDCS with modified CIMT (mCIMT) for the recovery of the Upper Limb (UL) in hospitalized patients with acute and subacute stroke. METHODS This randomized controlled, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group clinical trial was executed between September 2018 to March 2021 recruited 70 patients. The patients were randomized to one of two groups to receive treatment for 7 consecutive days, which included 20 min of active or sham bihemispheric tDCS daily (anodal ipsilesional and cathodal contralesional), with an mCIMT protocol. The primary outcome was the difference in the evolution of motor and functional upper limb recovery with assessment on days 0, 5, 7, 10 and 90. The secondary outcomes were independence in activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life. RESULTS The active group presented a statistically significant gap compared to the simulated group throughout the trend in the scores of the FMA (motor function and joint pain) and WMFT (functional ability and weight to box) (p < 0.05) and showed a minimal clinically important difference (FMA: difference between groups of 4.9 points [CI: 0.007- 9.799]; WMFT: difference between groups of 6.54 points [CI: 1.10-14.15]). In the secondary outcomes, there was a significant difference between the groups in ADL independence (Functional Independence Measure: difference of 8.63 [CI: 1.37-18.64]) and perceived recovery of quality of life evaluated at 90 days (p = 0.0176). CONCLUSIONS Combining mCIMT with bihemispheric tDCS in patients hospitalized with acute-subacute stroke allows us to maximize the motor and functional recovery of the paretic upper limb in the early stages and independence in ADL, maintaining the effects over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maricel Garrido M
- Servicio de Medicina Física y Rehabilitación, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Evelyn Álvarez E
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Central de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Departamento de Terapia Ocupacional y Ciencia de la Ocupación, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Fabrizio Acevedo P
- Servicio de Medicina Física y Rehabilitación, Hospital San José, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Álvaro Moyano V
- Servicio de Medicina Física y Rehabilitación, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Natalia Castillo N
- Departamento de Terapia Ocupacional y Ciencia de la Ocupación, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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Barbati SA, Podda MV, Grassi C. Tuning brain networks: The emerging role of transcranial direct current stimulation on structural plasticity. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:945777. [PMID: 35936497 PMCID: PMC9351051 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.945777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique (NIBS) that has been proven to promote beneficial effects in a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Unfortunately, although has been widely investigated, the mechanism comprehension around tDCS effects presents still some gaps. Therefore, scientists are still trying to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind its positive effects to permit a more suitable application. Experimental models have provided converging evidence that tDCS elicits improvements in learning and memory by modulating both excitability and synaptic plasticity in neurons. Recently, among tDCS neurobiological effects, neural synchronization and dendritic structural changes have been reported in physiological and pathological conditions, suggesting possible effects at the neuronal circuit level. In this review, we bring in to focus the emerging effects of tDCS on the structural plasticity changes and neuronal rewiring, with the intent to match these two aspects with the underpinning molecular mechanisms identified so far, providing a new perspective to work on to unveil novel tDCS therapeutic use to treat brain dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Vittoria Podda
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Maria Vittoria Podda,
| | - Claudio Grassi
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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10
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Stance Phase Gait Training Post Stroke Using Simultaneous Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Motor Learning-Based Virtual Reality-Assisted Therapy: Protocol Development and Initial Testing. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12060701. [PMID: 35741586 PMCID: PMC9221094 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12060701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Gait deficits are often persistent after stroke, and current rehabilitation methods do not restore normal gait for everyone. Targeted methods of focused gait therapy that meet the individual needs of each stroke survivor are needed. Our objective was to develop and test a combination protocol of simultaneous brain stimulation and focused stance phase training for people with chronic stroke (>6 months). We combined Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) with targeted stance phase therapy using Virtual Reality (VR)-assisted treadmill training and overground practice. The training was guided by motor learning principles. Five users (>6 months post-stroke with stance phase gait deficits) completed 10 treatment sessions. Each session began with 30 min of VR-assisted treadmill training designed to apply motor learning (ML)-based stance phase targeted practice. During the first 15 min of the treadmill training, bihemispheric tDCS was simultaneously delivered. Immediately after, users completed 30 min of overground (ML)-based gait training. The outcomes included the feasibility of protocol administration, gait speed, Timed Up and Go (TUG), Functional Gait Assessment (FGA), paretic limb stance phase control capability, and the Fugl−Meyer for lower extremity coordination (FMLE). The changes in the outcome measures (except the assessments of stance phase control capability) were calculated as the difference from baseline. Statistically and clinically significant improvements were observed after 10 treatment sessions in gait speed (0.25 ± 0.11 m/s) and FGA (4.55 ± 3.08 points). Statistically significant improvements were observed in TUG (2.36 ± 3.81 s) and FMLE (4.08 ± 1.82 points). A 10-session intervention combining tDCS and ML-based task-specific gait rehabilitation was feasible and produced clinically meaningful improvements in lower limb function in people with chronic gait deficits after stroke. Because only five users tested the new protocol, the results cannot be generalized to the whole population. As a contribution to the field, we developed and tested a protocol combining brain stimulation and ML-based stance phase training for individuals with chronic stance phase deficits after stroke. The protocol was feasible to administer; statistically and/or clinically significant improvements in gait function across an array of gait performance measures were observed with this relatively short treatment protocol.
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Early Application of Ipsilateral Cathodal-tDCS in a Mouse Model of Brain Ischemia Results in Functional Improvement and Perilesional Microglia Modulation. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12040588. [PMID: 35454177 PMCID: PMC9027610 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Early stroke therapeutic approaches rely on limited options, further characterized by a narrow therapeutic time window. In this context, the application of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the acute phases after brain ischemia is emerging as a promising non-invasive tool. Despite the wide clinical application of tDCS, the cellular mechanisms underlying its positive effects are still poorly understood. Here, we explored the effects of cathodal tDCS (C-tDCS) 6 h after focal forelimb M1 ischemia in Cx3CR1GFP/+ mice. C-tDCS improved motor functionality of the affected forelimb, as assessed by the cylinder and foot-fault tests at 48 h, though not changing the ischemic volume. In parallel, histological analysis showed that motor recovery is associated with decreased microglial cell density in the area surrounding the ischemic core, while astrocytes were not affected. Deeper analysis of microglia morphology within the perilesional area revealed a shift toward a more ramified healthier state, with increased processes’ complexity and a less phagocytic anti-inflammatory activity. Taken together, our findings suggest a positive role for early C-tDCS after ischemia, which is able to modulate microglia phenotype and morphology in parallel to motor recovery.
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12
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Chow AMD, Shin J, Wang H, Kellawan JM, Pereira HM. Influence of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Dosage and Associated Therapy on Motor Recovery Post-stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:821915. [PMID: 35370603 PMCID: PMC8972130 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.821915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose (1) To determine the impact of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied alone or combined with other therapies on the recovery of motor function after stroke and (2) To determine tDCS dosage effect. Methods Randomized controlled trials comparing the effects of tDCS with sham, using the Barthel Index (BI), the upper and lower extremity Fugl–Meyer Assessment (FMA), and the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), were retrieved from PubMed, Medline (EBSCO), and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) from their inception to June 2021. Calculations for each assessment were done for the overall effect and associated therapy accounting for the influence of stroke severity or stimulation parameters. Results A total of 31 studies involving metrics of the BI, the upper extremity FMA, the lower extremity FMA, and the MAS were included. tDCS combined with other therapies was beneficial when assessed by the BI (mean difference: 6.8; P < 0.01) and these studies typically had participants in the acute stage. tDCS effects on the upper and lower extremity FMA are unclear and differences between the sham and tDCS groups as well as differences in the associated therapy type combined with tDCS potentially influenced the FMA results. tDCS was not effective compared to sham for the MAS. Stimulation types (e.g., anodal vs. cathodal) did not influence these results and dosage parameters were not associated with the obtained effect sizes. Conventional therapy associated with tDCS typically produced greater effect size than assisted therapy. The influence of stroke severity is unclear. Conclusion Potential benefits of tDCS can vary depending on assessment tool used, duration of stroke, and associated therapy. Mechanistic studies are needed to understand the potential role of stimulation type and dosage effect after stroke. Future studies should carefully conduct group randomization, control for duration of stroke, and report different motor recovery assessments types. Systematic Review Registration [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/], identifier [CRD42021290670].
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan-Michael D. Chow
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Jeonghwa Shin
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Hongwu Wang
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jeremy Mikhail Kellawan
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Hugo M. Pereira
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
- *Correspondence: Hugo M. Pereira,
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Longo V, Barbati SA, Re A, Paciello F, Bolla M, Rinaudo M, Miraglia F, Alù F, Di Donna MG, Vecchio F, Rossini PM, Podda MV, Grassi C. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Enhances Neuroplasticity and Accelerates Motor Recovery in a Stroke Mouse Model. Stroke 2022; 53:1746-1758. [PMID: 35291824 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.121.034200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More effective strategies are needed to promote poststroke functional recovery. Here, we evaluated the impact of bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on forelimb motor function recovery and the underlying mechanisms in mice subjected to focal ischemia of the motor cortex. METHODS Photothrombotic stroke was induced in the forelimb brain motor area, and tDCS was applied once per day for 3 consecutive days, starting 72 hours after stroke. Grid-walking, single pellet reaching, and grip strength tests were conducted to assess motor function. Local field potentials were recorded to evaluate brain connectivity. Western immunoblotting, ELISA, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Golgi-Cox staining were used to uncover tDCS-mediated stroke recovery mechanisms. RESULTS Among our results, tDCS increased the rate of motor recovery, anticipating it at the early subacute stage. In this window, tDCS enhanced BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) expression and dendritic spine density in the peri-infarct motor cortex, along with increasing functional connectivity between motor and somatosensory cortices. Treatment with the BDNF TrkB (tropomyosin-related tyrosine kinase B) receptor inhibitor, ANA-12, prevented tDCS effects on motor recovery and connectivity as well as the increase of spine density, pERK (phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase), pCaMKII (phosphorylated calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II), pMEF (phosphorylated myocyte-enhancer factor), and PSD (postsynaptic density)-95. The tDCS-promoted rescue was paralleled by enhanced plasma BDNF level, suggesting its potential role as circulating prognostic biomarker. CONCLUSIONS The rate of motor recovery is accelerated by tDCS applied in the subacute phase of stroke. Anticipation of motor recovery via vicariate pathways or neural reserve recruitment would potentially enhance the efficacy of standard treatments, such as physical therapy, which is often delayed to a later stage when plastic responses are progressively lower.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Longo
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Saviana Antonella Barbati
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Agnese Re
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Fabiola Paciello
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Maria Bolla
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Marco Rinaudo
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Francesca Miraglia
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Italy (F.M., F.A., F.V., P.M.R.)
| | - Francesca Alù
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Italy (F.M., F.A., F.V., P.M.R.)
| | - Martina Gaia Di Donna
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Vecchio
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Italy (F.M., F.A., F.V., P.M.R.).,eCampus University, Novedrate, Como, Italy (F.V.)
| | - Paolo Maria Rossini
- Brain Connectivity Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Italy (F.M., F.A., F.V., P.M.R.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Podda
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.).,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy (M.V.P., C.G.)
| | - Claudio Grassi
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy (V.L., S.A.B., A.R., F.P., M.B., M.R., M.G.D.D., M.V.P., C.G.).,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy (M.V.P., C.G.)
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Ahmed I, Yeldan I, Mustafaoglu R. The Adjunct of Electric Neurostimulation to Rehabilitation Approaches in Upper Limb Stroke Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review With Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Neuromodulation 2022; 25:1197-1214. [PMID: 35216873 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review analyzed the current evidence and the potential for the application of electric neurostimulation such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in upper limb stroke rehabilitation. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using network meta-analysis (NMA), searching the following data bases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, using specific keywords, from January 2010 to April 2021, and assessing the effects of "tDCS" or "VNS" combined with other therapies on upper limb motor function and activities of daily living (ADL) after stroke. RESULTS We included 38 RCTs with 1261 participants. Pairwise NMA showed transcutaneous VNS (tVNS) and anodal tDCS were effective in improving upper limb motor function (tVNS: mean difference [MD]: 5.50; 95% CI [0.67-11.67]; p < 0.05; anodal tDCS: MD: 5.23; 95% CI [2.45-8.01]; p < 0.05). tVNS and tDCS (anodal and cathodal) were also effective in improving ADL performance after stroke (tVNS: standard MD [SMD]: 0.96; 95% CI [0.15-2.06]; p < 0.05; anodal tDCS: SMD: 3.78; 95% CI [0.0-7.56]; p < 0.05; cathodal tDCS: SMD: 5.38; 95% CI [0.22-10.54]; p < 0.05). Surface under the cumulative ranking curve analysis revealed that tVNS is the best ranked treatment in improving upper limb motor function and performance in ADL after stroke. There was no difference in safety between VNS and its control interventions, measured by reported adverse events (VNS: risk ratio = 1.02 [95% CI = 0.48-2.17; I2 = 0; p = 0.96]). CONCLUSION Moderate- to high-quality evidence suggests that tVNS and anodal tDCS were effective in improving upper limb motor function in both acute/subacute and chronic stroke. In addition to tVNS and anodal tDCS, cathodal tDCS is also effective in improving ADL performance after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Ahmed
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Institute of Graduate Studies, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ipek Yeldan
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Rustem Mustafaoglu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Gottlieb A, Boltzmann M, Schmidt SB, Gutenbrunner C, Krauss JK, Stangel M, Höglinger GU, Wallesch CW, Rollnik JD. Treatment of upper limb spasticity with inhibitory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. NeuroRehabilitation 2021; 49:425-434. [PMID: 34542038 DOI: 10.3233/nre-210088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Upper limb dysfunction is a frequent complication after stroke impairing outcome. Inhibitory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) applied over the contralesional hemisphere is supposed to enhance the positive effects of conventional rehabilitative treatment. OBJECTIVE This double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial investigated whether inhibitory rTMS as add-on to standard therapy improves upper limb spasticity. METHODS Twenty-eight patients (aged 44 to 80 years) with unilateral stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory were analyzed. Participants were randomly assigned to inhibitory, low-frequency (LF-) rTMS (n = 14) or sham-rTMS (n = 14). The primary outcome measure was the spasticity grade, which was assessed with the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). In addition, the Fugl-Meyer-Assessment (FMA) for the upper extremity (UE) and a resting-state fMRI were performed to measure motor functions and the sensorimotor network, respectively. RESULTS The MAS score was reduced in the LF-rTMS group only, whereas the FMA score improved in both groups over time. Regarding the fMRI data, both groups activated typical regions of the sensorimotor network. In the LF-rTMS group, however, connectivity to the left angular gyrus increased after treatment. CONCLUSION Changes in functional connectivity in patients receiving inhibitory rTMS over the contralesional motor cortex suggest that processes of neuronal plasticity are stimulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gottlieb
- BDH-Clinic Hessisch Oldendorf, Institute for Neurorehabilitation Research (InFo), Associated Institute of Hannover Medical School, Hessisch Oldendorf, Germany
| | - Melanie Boltzmann
- BDH-Clinic Hessisch Oldendorf, Institute for Neurorehabilitation Research (InFo), Associated Institute of Hannover Medical School, Hessisch Oldendorf, Germany
| | - Simone B Schmidt
- BDH-Clinic Hessisch Oldendorf, Institute for Neurorehabilitation Research (InFo), Associated Institute of Hannover Medical School, Hessisch Oldendorf, Germany
| | | | - Joachim K Krauss
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Martin Stangel
- Section of Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | - Jens D Rollnik
- BDH-Clinic Hessisch Oldendorf, Institute for Neurorehabilitation Research (InFo), Associated Institute of Hannover Medical School, Hessisch Oldendorf, Germany
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