Article

The potential benefits of repetitive transcranial magnetic
stimulation (rTMS), applied either alone or as a combination treatment, on
recovery of lower limbs after stroke have been insufficiently studied.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of priming with 1-Hz repetitive
transcranial magnetic stimulation over contralesional leg motor area with a
double-cone coil before physical therapy on regaining ambulation. METHODS:
Thirty-eight subacute stroke patients with significant leg disabilities were
randomly assigned into the experimental group or control group to receive a
15-min real or sham 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation,
respectively, over the contralesional motor cortex representing the quadriceps
muscle followed by 45-min physical therapy for 15 sessions for 3 wks. Functional
measures, motor evoked potentials, and quality of life were assessed. RESULTS:
There was no significant difference between experimental group and control group
regarding the recovery in ambulation, balance, motor functions, and activity of
daily living. No significant difference was found in other functional measures
and the quality of life. Only the control group displayed significantly increased
cortical excitability of the contralesional hemisphere after the intervention.
CONCLUSIONS: The present study found that insufficient evidence that
contralesional priming with 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation
improves ambulatory and other motor functions among patients with a severe leg
dysfunction in subacute stroke.

Langue : ANGLAIS