Effects of High-Frequency rTMS Combined with Task-Oriented Mirror Therapy Training on Hand Rehabilitation of Acute Stroke Patients

TITLE
Effects of High-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined with Task-Oriented Mirror Therapy Training on Hand Rehabilitation of Acute Stroke Patients

AUTHORS
Kim J; Yim J. Institution Kim, Jinhong. Department of Physical Therapy, The Graduate School, Sahmyook University, Seoul, South Korea. Yim, Jongeun. Department of Physical Therapy, The Graduate School, Sahmyook University, Seoul, South Korea.

SOURCE
Medical Science Monitor. 24:743-750, 2018 Feb 06.

BACKGROUND
Impairments of hand function make it difficult to perform daily life activities and to return to work. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (HF-rTMS) combined with task-oriented mirror therapy (TOMT) on hand rehabilitation in acute stroke patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
Twenty subacute stroke patients in the initial stages (<3 months) participated in the study. Subjects were allocated to 2 groups: the experimental group received HF-rTMS + TOMT and the control group received HF-rTMS. TOMT training was conducted in 10 sessions over 2 weeks for 30 min. rTMS was applied at a 20 Hz frequency over the hand motor area in the cortex of the affected hemisphere for 15 min. Outcomes, including motor-evoked potential (MEP), pinch grip, hand grip, and box and block test, were measured before and after training.

RESULTS
Significant improvements in the MEP and hand function variables were observed in both groups (p<0.05). In particular, hand functions (pinch grip and box and block test) were significantly different between the 2 groups (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS
HF-rTMS combined with TOMT had a positive effect on hand function and can be used for the rehabilitation of precise hand movements in acute stroke patients.