Article

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the potential of cumulative high-frequency repetitive
transcranial magnetic stimulation (HF-rTMS) on freezing of gait in atypical
Parkinsonism. DESIGN: Randomized, single-blinded, crossover study with a blinded
observer. PARTICIPANTS: Eight patients with atypical Parkinsonism. METHODS: All
participants received HF-rTMS over the lower leg primary motor cortex (M1-LL) for
5 consecutive days. Alternative sham stimulation was also administered with a
2-week wash-out period. Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (FOG-Q), turn steps in the
modified Standing Start 180 degrees Turn Test, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) task,
and the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS-III) were
performed before, after, and one week after rTMS. RESULTS: All participants
completed this study without any significant adverse effects. FOG-Q and turn
steps revealed significant improvements over time in the rTMS compared with the
sham stimulation (chi2=6.067, p=0.048 and chi2=9.083, p=0.011). In addition, the
TUG task and UPDRS-III showed significant improvements over time in the rTMS
compared with the sham stimulation (chi2=7.200, p=0.02 and chi2=7.000, p=0.030).
CONCLUSION: Cumulative HF-rTMS over the M1-LL might be effective for improving
freezing of gait in patients with atypical Parkinsonism. Further investigation
with a large number of participants is needed to clarify the effects of HF- rTMS
on freezing of gait in atypical Parkinsonism.

Langue : ANGLAIS