Article

Previous studies have shown that subthreshold electrical or
mechanical noise can reduce the sensory threshold and impart short-term
improvements in sensorimotor function. We undertook this study to examine the
effects of combined subsensory electrical and vibratory stimulation in
conjunction with exercise training on long-term motor performance. DESIGN: Thirty
subjects were recruited from adult community-dwelling stroke survivors with
residual hemiparesis. Subjects were screened for residual motor ability using a
functional task, and those who functioned below this level were excluded. All
subjects had a history of a single unilateral ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke at
least 6 mos before study entry and were not actively receiving occupational or
physical therapy. Subjects were stratified by baseline upper extremity Fugl-Meyer
(UEFM) (more impaired [28-35] and less impaired [36-55]) and were randomized to
one of two groups: treatment (stochastic resonance stimulation [plus over minus
sign] exercise: 15 subjects) and control (sham stimulation [plus over minus sign]
exercise: 15 subjects). RESULTS: No significant difference was found between the
stochastic resonance treatment and control group in the UEFM or in any of the
secondary measures. The combined group showed modest improvements in UEFM from
baseline to completion of therapy (mean improvement, 2.6 points) (P = 0.004);
however, these improvements declined by 1-mo follow-up to 1.5 points (P = 0.055).
No change in sensory function was detectable. CONCLUSIONS: Stochastic resonance
therapy combined with occupational therapy was no more effective than
occupational therapy alone in restoring sensorimotor performance. Other
stochastic resonance stimulation montages or protocols might prove more
effective.

Langue : ANGLAIS