Article

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the brain has
been shown to modulate cortical excitability. Combinations of rehabilitation
therapies with rTMS might enhance the therapeutic effects. The purpose
of this study was to investigate the effects of high-frequency rTMS followed by
treadmill training on cortical inhibition and walking function in individuals
with Parkinson disease (PD). METHODS: A total of 20 patients with PD were
randomized into an experimental group and a control group. Participants received
rTMS (experimental group) or sham rTMS (control group) followed by treadmill
training (30 minutes) for 12 sessions over 4 weeks. Repetitive TMS was applied at
a 5-Hz frequency over the leg area of the motor cortex contralaterally to the
more affected side for 6 minutes. Outcomes, including corticomotor inhibition and
walking performance, were measured before and after training. RESULTS: . The
results showed significant time effects on almost all corticomotor and functional
variables. There are significant interaction effects between group and time of
evaluation on the motor threshold, duration of the cortical silent period, and
short interval intracortical inhibition of the contralateral hemisphere
relatively to the more affected side as well as on the fast walking speed and
timed up and go. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggested that combination of rTMS and
treadmill training enhances the effect of treadmill training on modulation of
corticomotor inhibition and improvement of walking performance in those with PD.

Langue : ANGLAIS