Efectividad de la Terapia Acuática en la Función Motora Gruesa en Población Infantojuvenil con Parálisis Cerebral. Una Revisión Narrativa / Effectiveness of Aquatic Therapy on Gross Motor Function in Children and Young People with Cerebral Palsy. A Narrative Review

Introducción. La parálisis cerebral (PC) es una de las principales causas de discapacidad en la población infantil, afectando diversas áreas del desarrollo como la función motora gruesa; equilibrio y marcha. Hay evidencia de los beneficios de la terapia acuática y de cómo puede complementar la rehabilitación. Objetivo. Describir la efectividad de las intervenciones acuáticas en personas con PC, determinar mejoras en la función motora gruesa uso de métodos, protocolos y dosificación. Métodos. Se analizaron 9 estudios aleatorizados controlados desde el 2012 a la fecha, seleccionados por un experto y cuyos sujetos tenían PC espástica, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) I a IV, entre los 2 y 20 años. Post intervención acuática se reportan mejoras significativas en el promedio de los ítems medidos por Gross motor function measure (GMFM). De los métodos que contribuyeron a mejoras se encuentra Halliwick y ejercicios acuáticos sin un programa específico. Resultados. Se obtuvieron mejoras de 35 a 100 minutos, y de 12 a 30 sesiones en total. No se logra concluir el tipo de terapia más efectiva, ya que las medidas de resultado y las características de los sujetos eran diversas. Conclusión. Una dosificación mínima de 2 veces por semana, 35 minutos de intervención en un total de 16 sesiones (9,3 horas en total) pareciera mejorar la función motora gruesa, cuyos resultados son transferibles a las actividades en tierra inmediatamente, sin embargo, no se obtiene información si se mantienen a mediano o largo plazo.

Background. Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the main causes of disability in the child population, affecting various areas of development such as gross motor function; balance and gait. There is evidence of the benefits of aquatic therapy and how it can complement rehabilitation. Objective. to describe the effectiveness of aquatic interventions in people with CP, to determine improvements in gross motor function using methods, protocols, and dosage. Methods. Nine randomized controlled studies were analyzed from 2012 to date, selected by an expert and whose subjects had spastic CP, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) I to IV, between 2 and 20 years of age. Results. After the aquatic intervention, significant improvements were reported in the average of the Gross motor function measure (GMFM) items measured. Of the methods that contributed to improvements, there is Halliwick and aquatic exercises without a specific program. Results. Improvements were obtained from 35 to 100 minutes, and from 12 to 30 sessions in total. It is not possible to conclude the most effective type of therapy, since the outcome measures and the characteristics of the subjects were diverse. Conclusion. A minimum dosage of 2 times per week, 35 minutes of intervention in a total of 16 sessions (9.3 hours in total) seems to improve gross motor function, the results of which are immediately transferable to activities on land, however, it is not obtains information if they are maintained in the medium or long term.

Effect of exercise rehabilitation and adapted physical activity on psychomotor skills, motor abilities and motor development in children and adolescents with spastic cerebral palsy: an evidence-based research using ICF / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo systematically review the evidences of impact of exercise rehabilitation and adapted physical activity on psychomotor skills, motor abilities, and motor development in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). MethodsRelevant literature was retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and CNKI, from January, 2010 to June, 2023. The contents were coded using International Classification of Diseases, Eleventh Revision, and International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health; and evidences were analyzed with theoretical framework and code of ICD-11 and ICF. ResultsA total of nine articles were included, from Denmark, South Korea, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, India and Japan, published from 2015 to 2022. The intervention programs primarily involved exercise rehabilitation (including physical therapy) and adapted physical activity. Exercise rehabilitation included upper limb strength training, lower limb strength training, balance and coordination training, gait training, functional aerobic exercise, stretching and flexibility exercises, flexibility training, muscle relaxation techniques; ten to 50 minutes a time, two to six times a week,with the intensity of low to high, for six to 20 weeks. Adapted physical activities mainly involved adapted running training, virtual games; 60 minutes a time, two to four times a week, with the intensity of medium to high, for six to twelve weeks. Interventions primarily took place in medical and rehabilitation institutions, schools, and home-based communities, with professionals including occupational physical therapists, university researchers, community health personnel and teachers. The outcomes were mainly reflected in four aspects: psychomotor skills, motor abilities, motor development, and quality of life and well-being. In terms of psychomotor skills, adolescents with CP mastered running techniques and knowledge, and enhanced their response to balance threats. In terms of motor abilities, adolescents with CP showed an increase in muscle strength, enhanced muscle endurance, and an expansion of muscle tone; improvements in gait functionality, walking ability, and gait symmetry; increases in walking endurance; improvements in standing function; and improvements in dynamic balance; as well as enhanced control over balance posture. In terms of motor development, there was a significant improvement in activities of daily living, participation levels in school and leisure activities during free time, and an expanded range of motion. In terms of quality of life and well-being, adolescents with CP showed significant enhancements in self-confidence and self-esteem, significant relief from (spastic) pain, and improvements in social well-being and acceptance. ConclusionThis systematic review has synthesized the evidences of benefits of exercise rehabilitation and adapted physical activity on the psychomotor skills, motor abilities and motor development of children and adolescents with spastic CP. In terms of psychomotor skills, exercise rehabilitation and adapted physical activity help to improve the cognitive and motor skills of adolescents with spastic CP. In terms of motor abilities, exercise rehabilitation and adapted physical activity can improve muscle-related functions, gait and walking abilities, as well as balance and coordination. In terms of motor development, exercise rehabilitation and adapted physical activity significantly enhance activities of daily living and the level of participation in leisure physical activities. Finally, exercise rehabilitation and adapted physical activity can increase energy and motivation, alleviate pain, and enhance social well-being and acceptance.

Effect of modified Baduanjin exercise on cardiopulmonary function, motor function and activities of daily living for stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of modified Baduanjin exercise, as an rehabilitation exercise, on cardiopulmonary function, motor function and activities of daily living in patients with stroke. MethodsFrom January to September, 2023, 42 stroke patients in the Nanjing Qixia District Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 21) and experimental group (n = 21). The control group received routine rehabilitation, and the experimental group received modified Baduanjin exercise in addition, for four weeks. They were assessed with peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), anaerobic threshold (AT), peak oxygen pulse (VO2peak/HR), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), Fugl-Meyer Assessment-upper extremities (FMA-UE), Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and modified Barthel Index (MBI) before and after intervention. ResultsVO2peak, AT, and the scores of FMA-UE, BBS and MBI improved in the control group after intervention (|t| > 2.256, |Z| > 2.936, P < 0.05); while VO2peak, AT, VO2peak/HR, FVC, FEV1, PEF, and the scores of FMA-UE, BBS and MBI improved in the experimental group (|t| > 4.390, |Z| > 3.451, P < 0.001); and all the indexes were better in the experimental group than in the control group (|t| > 4.136，|Z| > 2.751，P < 0.01), except the scores of BBS and MBI. ConclusionModified Baduanjin exercise can improve the cardiopulmonary function and upper limb motor function for stroke patients.

Neuroprotective effect of sodium aescinate on rats with Parkinson’s disease by regulating SIRT1/NF-κB signaling pathway / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To explore the neuroprotective effect of sodium aescinate on rats with Parkinson’s disease by regulating the silent information regulator 1 （SIRT1）/nuclear factor-κB （NF-κB） signaling pathway. METHODS The Parkinson’s disease rat model was constructed by using 6-hydroxydopamine injection method. Forty-eight rats successfully modeled were randomly divided into model group， sodium aescinate low-dose group （1.8 mg/kg）， sodium aescinate high-dose group （3.6 mg/kg）， sodium aescinate+EX527 （sodium aescinate 3.6 mg/kg+SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 5 mg/kg） group， with 12 rats in each group. Another 12 healthy rats were selected as the sham operation group. Each group was injected with the corresponding drug solution intraperitoneally， once a day， for 21 consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the end of the last administration， the motor and cognitive functions of rats were detected， and the morphology of neurons in the substantia nigra and CA1 region of hippocampal tissue were observed. The content of dopamine （DA） in the nigrostriatal and the expression levels of tyrosine hydroxylase （TH） and α-synuclein （α-Syn） in the substantia nigra were detected. The serum levels of pro-inflammatory factor [interleukin-6 （IL-6）， IL-18]， anti-inflammatory factor （IL-10）， and the expression levels of SIRT1， phosphorylated NF-κB p65 （p-NF-κB p65） and NF- κB p65 protein in nigrostriatal were detected. RESULTS Compared with sham operation group， the neurons in the substantia nigra and CA1 region of hippocampal tissue were seriously damaged in model group； the number of rotations， escape latency， the expression levels of α-Syn in substantia nigra， the levels of serum pro-inflammatory factors， the relative expression ratio of p-NF- κB p65 and NF-κB p65 protein in nigrostriatal were increased or prolonged significantly （P＜0.05）； the target quadrant residence time， the content of DA in nigrostriatal， the expression level of TH in substantia nigra， the serum level of anti-inflammatory factor， and the expression level of SIRT1 protein in substantia nigra striatum were significantly decreased or shortened （P＜0.05）. Compared with model group， the damage degrees of neuron in sodium aescinate groups were alleviated， and the quantitative indicators were significantly improved， which were more significant in the high-dose group （P＜0.05）； EX527 could reverse the improvement effect of high-dose sodium aescinate （P＜0.05）. CONCLUSIONS Sodium aescinate can inhibit the activation of NF-κB signal by up-regulating the protein expression of SIRT1， thereby reducing the neuroinflammation of rats with Parkinson’s disease， improving the motor and cognitive dysfunctions， and finally playing a neuroprotective role.

Quality of life in children with cerebral palsy

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common motor disability in childhood. Quality of life (QOL) has emerged as an important concept in childhood, especially for children with disabilities. CP has an impact on a child’s capacity to do activities of daily living thus affecting QOL of patients and their families. Aims and Objectives: The objective of present study was to assess the QOL in children with CP. Materials and Methods: In this study, 29 children with CP in the age group of 4–12 years were evaluated for QOL was assessed using CPQOL-Child Primary Caregiver Questionnaire (4–12 years). The questionnaire was completed by one of the parents or their caregiver. Scores for each domain of QOL were converted to a scale ranging from 0 to 100 and analyzed. Results: The scores as reported by the parents were low for each of the domains with maximum effect seen in functioning domain and least in pain domain. Girls had better QOL than boys. The QOL scores were negatively related to the severity of CP which was assessed by gross motor function classification system suggesting that severity of disability had negative impact on QOL. Conclusion: QOL of children with CP was found to be poor and was influenced by age, sex and motor functioning

Effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on premotor cortex on upper limb motor function in patients with severe stroke / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS) on premotor cortex (PMC) on upper limb motor function in patients with severe stroke. MethodsFrom June, 2021 to December, 2022, 60 patients with severe stroke in Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 20), primary motor cortex (M1) group (n = 20) and PMC group (n = 20). All the groups accepted routine rehabilitation treatment, while the control group accepted atDCS pseudo stimulation to the focus side PMC, M1 group accepted atDCS to the focus side M1, and PMC group accepted atDCS to the focus side PMC, for six weeks. Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), the surface electromyography root mean square (RMS) ratio of affected/unaffected side of triceps and extensor carpus were used to evaluate the efficacy before and after treatment. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and WMFT, and RMS ratio of triceps and extensor carpus significantly increased in all the groups (|t| > 2.458, P < 0.05), and were better in PMC group than in the other two groups (F > 4.084, P < 0.05). ConclusionatDCS on PMC could improve the overall function of upper limb in patients with severe stroke.

Effect of music therapy on post-stroke cognitive impairment / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of music therapy on cognitive function, motor function, and activities of daily living (ADL) of patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment. MethodsFrom December, 2020 to July, 2022, 48 patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment in Beijing Bo'ai Hospital were enrolled and randomly divided into control group (n = 24) and experimental group (n = 24). Both groups received conventional medication, nursing, and conventional rehabilitation, while the experimental group received music therapy additionally, for eight weeks. Before and after intervention, the cognitive function was assessed by Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA), and motor function and ADL were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and modified Barthel Index (MBI), respectively. ResultsSix cases in the control group dropped down. The increase in the scores of LOTCA and FMA was more in the experimental group than in the control group (t > 2.665, P < 0.05), however, no significant difference was found in the increase of MBI score between two groups. ConclusionMusic therapy could improve the cognitive function and motor function of patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment.

Effect of video-based mirror therapy on lower limb motor function of stroke patients at recovery stage / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of video-based mirror therapy on lower limb motor function, walking ability, and balance of stroke patients at recovery stage. MethodsFrom January to October, 2022, 43 stroke patients in Beijing Bo'ai Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 22) and mirror therapy group (n = 21). Both groups received routine rehabilitation, and the mirror therapy group received video-based mirror therapy additionally, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Lower Extremities (FMA-LE), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) before and after treatment. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of FMA-LE, FAC and BBS improved significantly in both groups (|t| > 6.205, P < 0.001), and the scores of FMA-LE and BBS were better in the mirror therapy group than in the control group (|t| > 2.164, P < 0.05). ConclusionCombining with video-based mirror therapy could facilitate to improve the lower limb motor function and balance ability of stroke patients at recovery stage.

Effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation combined with robot-assisted therapy on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) combined with robot-assisted therapy on upper limb function of subacute stroke patients. MethodsFrom March, 2022 to March, 2023, 60 subacute stroke patients from Dushu Lake Hospital and the First People's Hospital of Kunshan were randomly divided into control group (n = 20), robot group (n = 20) and combined group (n = 20). All the groups received conventional treatments including medication, physical therapy and occupational therapy; the robot group received sham taVNS combined with hand robot-assisted therapy; while the combined group received taVNS combined with hand robot-assisted therapy, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) and hand part, the root mean square (RMS) electromyography of the extensor carpi radialis and extensor digitorum muscles during contraction, and the latency and amplitude of transcranial magnetic stimulation motor-evoked potential (TMS-MEP) before and after treatment. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and hand part, RMS of the extensor carpi radialis and extensor digitorum muscles, and latency and amplitude of TMS-MEP improved in all the groups (t > 2.099, P < 0.05); and they were the best in all indicators in the combined group (F > 9.106, P < 0.001). ConclusiontaVNS combined with robot-assisted therapy can promote central nervous system remodeling and further improve upper limb function in stroke patients.

Effect of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation on upper limb motor function of stroke patients after contralateral seventh cervical nerve transfer / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation on upper limb motor function rehabilitation of stroke patients after contralateral seventh cervical nerve transfer (CC7). MethodsFrom May, 2020, to May, 2022, 34 stroke patients with hemiplegia underwent CC7 in Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai were randomly divided into control group (n = 17) and observation group (n = 17). Both groups received conventional rehabilitation. The observation group accepted repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation, and the control group received sham stimulation, for eight weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) and Hua-Shan Grading of Upper Extremity (H-S grading) before and after treatment. ResultsTwo cases dropped down in each group. There was difference in gender between two groups (χ2 = 6.136, P < 0.05). After treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and H-S grading significantly improved in both groups (t > 4.000, P < 0.01), and the improvement was better in the observation group than in the control group (t > 2.362, P < 0.05). ConclusionRepetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation could improve the motor function of upper limb and hand of stroke patients with hemiplegia after CC7.

Relationship between symmetry of lower limb function and gait symmetry in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the characteristics of gait symmetry and its influencing factors in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury (ISCI). MethodsFrom May, 2018 to November, 2021, 34 patients with ISCI in Beijing Bo'ai Hospital were divided into symmetrical injury of lower limb (SI) group and asymmetrical injury of lower limb (ASI) group according to the lower extremities motor score (LEMS). Three dimensional motion acquisition system and plantar pressure acquisition system were used for gait test. The symmetry indexes of step length, stance time and swing time were caculated. ResultsThe symmetry indexes of step length, stance time and swing time were significant lower in SI group than in ASI group (|t| > 2.619, P < 0.01). Stance time and swing time significantly correlated to the difference of bilateral LEMS in ASI group (r > 0.468, P < 0.01). Discriminant analysis showed that gait parameter equations were different for patients with different symmetry of lower limb injuries. ConclusionThe symmetry of lower limb motor function impacts gait symmetry for patients with ISCI, especially the difference value of bilateral total LEMS. Gait parameters can be used to determine the symmetry of lower limb injury in patients with ISCI.

Structure, contents and psychometric properties of measurement of motor function and motor ability applicable to children and adolescents with disabilities: a systematic review / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo evaluate the main structural and content features of four instruments for motor function and motor ability assessment and their psychometric properties for children and adolescents with disabilities, based on International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-Children and Youth Version (ICF-CY). MethodsPubMed, Medline and Web of Science databases were searched for literature on motor function and motor ability assessment for children and adolescents with disabilities published from establishment to May, 2023. The main structural and content characteristics of the tools were analyzed using ICF-CY, and the quality of measurement tools was assessed using COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN). ResultsNine papers were eventually included, and four assessment tools were identified, including Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88), Peabody Developmental Motor Scales second edition (PDMS-2), Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency second edition (BOT-2), and Movement Assessment Battery for Children second edition (MABC-2). The GMFM-88 consisted of 88 items in five dimensions: zone A (lying and rolling), zone B (sitting), zone C (crawling and kneeling), zone D (standing), and zone E (walking and running and jumping); it involved joint movement function (b710), random movement control function (b760), etc., in body function; and the change of basic body posture to maintain a body posture (d410) and maintain a body posture (d415) in activity and participation, with good to excellent levels of internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, content validity, and structural validity. The PDMS-2 consisted of six subtests, including reflexes, posture, movement, physical manipulation, grasping and visuomotor integration, with a total of 249 items; it involved memory function (b144) and joint mobility function (b710) in body function; as well as looking (d110) and imitation (d130) in activity and participation; with good psychometric properties in terms of internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, content validity, structural validity, and hypothesis testing and cross-cultural feasibility. There are two versions of BOT-2: long form and short form. The long form consisted of eight subtests with 53 items, involving joint mobility function (b710) and joint stability function (b715) in body function; as well as imitation (d130) and learned calculation (d150) in activity and participation; it achieved excellent levels of psychometric properties in terms of internal consistency reliability, content validity, and structural validity, and good level in reliability and test-retest reliability. MABC-2 consisted of two parts: an activity ability test and a checklist with 30 items; it involved joint mobility function (b710), joint stability function (b715), etc., in body function; as well as fine-hand use (d440), hand and arm use (d445) in activity and participation; with good psychometric properties such as reliability, content validity, and structural validity. ConclusionThis systematic review analyzed the main structural and content characteristics of four types of measurement tools for assessing motor function and motor ability in children and adolescents with disabilities based on the ICF-CY, and evaluated the quality of psychometric properties (internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, content validity, structural validity, and cross-cultural consistency, etc.) of the four types of measurement tools using the COSMIN criteria. For the structure and content, PDMS-2 appears the broadest content, and measures fine hand movements, dynamic and static balance, along with the BOT-2 and MABC-2. GMFM-88 focuses more on gross motor functions such as postural control. Four instruments show high internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, content validity and structural validity, while the BOT-2 and PDMS-2 show better reliability. To ensure the reliability and validity of the measures, rehabilitation workers and educators need to receive standardized training and qualification before using the standardized instruments for motor function and motor ability for children with disabilities. With norm-referenced measures, the results need to be converted to standard scores.

Effect of bilateral sequential repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on motor function of upper limbs in stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of bilateral sequential repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on the motor function of upper limbs in stroke patients. MethodsFrom December, 2020 to December, 2022, 62 stroke inpatients in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine were included. They were randomly divided into control group (n = 31) and observation group (n = 31). Both groups accepted conventional medicine and rehabilitation, as well as electroacupuncture antagonistic muscle therapy. Before electroacupuncture, the observation group acceped low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation at primary motor cortex (M1) on the healthy side, followed by intermittent theta burst stimulation at M1 on the affected side, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), modified Barthel Index (MBI) and modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and motor evoked potential (MEP) latency was compared before and after treatment. ResultsOne patient dropped down in the observation group, and no adverse event happened. After treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and MBI significantly increased (|t| > 9.953, P < 0.001), and the score of MAS and the latency of MEP significantly decreased (|t| > 5.043, P < 0.001) in both groups; while all of them were better in the observation group than in the control group (|t| > 2.237, P < 0.05). ConclusionBilateral sequential repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can effectively promote the recovery of upper limb motor function in stroke patients.

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with acupuncture on central and upper limb function in stroke patients based on central-peripheral-central theory / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with acupuncture on central and upper limb function in stroke patients at flaccid stage based on central-peripheral-central theory. MethodsFrom September, 2018 to December, 2021, 120 patients with upper limb dysfunction after stroke in Guangdong Work Injury Rehabilitation Hospital were selected and randomly divided into control group 1 (n = 40), control group 2 (n = 40) and experimental group (n = 40). All the groups received conventional rehabilitation treatment. In addition, the control group 1 received acupuncture treatment, the control group 2 received anodal tDCS, and the experimental group received combined treatment of both, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) and modified Barthel Index (MBI) before and after treatment. Electroencephalograph (EEG) was used to detect brain symmetry index (BSI), and electromyography (EMG) was used to detect root mean square values (RMS) of triceps brachii, biceps brachii, extensor wrist and flexor wrist of the affected upper limbs. ResultsTwo cases in the control group 1, one in the control group 2 and one in the experimental group dropped off, respectively. After treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and MBI significantly increased in all the groups (t > 11.757, P < 0.001), and they were higer in the experimental group than in the control groups (P < 0.001); the BSI decreased in the control group 2 and the experimental group (t > 2.324, P < 0.05), and it was less in the experimental group than in the control group 2 (P < 0.05); the RMS of biceps increased in all the groups (t > 2.953, P < 0.01), and was higer in the experimental group than in the control groups (P < 0.05); the RMS of flexor wrist and triceps increased in the control group 1 and the experimental group (t > 2.230, P < 0.05), and were higher in the experimental group than in the control group 1 (P < 0.05); the RMS of wrist extensor muscle increased only in the experimental group (t = 3.350, P < 0.01). ConclusiontDCS combined with acupuncture based on central-peripheral-central theory could effectively improve the upper limb function of stroke patients at flaccid stage, with advantages in improving hemispheric asymmetry and enhancing the activation level of affected muscles.

Correlation and predictive effect of subjective and objective balance function measurements in stroke patients with hemiplegia / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the correlation of index of standing balance tester to score of Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Fugl-Meyer Assment-Lower Extremites (FMA-LE) in stroke patients with hemiplegia, and analyze the predictive effect to BBS. MethodsFrom March to October, 2022, 66 stroke hemiplegic patients in the Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine were selected. The elliptical area and length of motion were measured with a balance tester when they were standing with eyes open or closed, respectively. They were also evaluated with BBS and FMA-LE. The correlation between the test results and the scores of BBS and FMA-LE was analyzed with Pearson's correlation analysis, and the predictive effect of the test results to the score of BBS was also analyzed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. ResultsHypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, smoking and alcohol drinking were not significant for the scores of BBS and FMA-LE (|t| < 1.124, P > 0.05). In the balance test, the eye opening movement ellipse area, eye opening movement length, eye closing movement ellipse area and eye closing movement length were negatively correlated with the scores of BBS and FMA-LE (|r| > 0.250, P < 0.05). The area under the ROC curve of eye opening movement ellipse area to the score of BBS was 0.685 (P = 0.019), and the area under the ROC curve of the eye opening movement length to the score of BBS was 0.764 (P < 0.001). ConclusionThe open eye movement ellipse area, open eye movement length, closed eye movement ellipse area and closed eye movement length are significantly negatively correlated with the scores of BBS and FMA-UE. The indexes of the balance test with eyes open may predict the score of BBS.

Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy combined with repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation on ankle motor function and balance of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) combined with repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) on ankle motor function and balance of stroke patients. MethodsFrom April, 2022 to March, 2023, 96 patients in the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College were randomly divided into control group (n = 32), rPMS group (n = 32) and combined group (n = 32). The control group received conventional rehabilitation; rPMS group received rPMS on the basis of the control group; and the combined group received HBOT on the basis of rPMS group, for two weeks. Before and after treatment, the plantar weight-bearing ratio of the affected side, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), active range of motion (AROM) of ankle dorsiflexion of the affected side, and integrated electromyographic (iEMG) values during maximum isometric contraction of the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscles were measured. ResultsTwo cases dropped out in each group, and 90 cases were finally included, and no adverse events occurred during treatment. Before treatment, there was no significant difference in plantar weight-bearing ratio of the affected side, BBS score, AROM of ankle dorsiflexion of the affected side, and iEMG of tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius among three groups (F < 2.070, P > 0.05). After treatment, all the indicators significantly improved in all the groups (|t| > 27.004, P < 0.001), and they were better in the combined group than in rPMS group and the control group (P < 0.001); except the proportion of plantar weight-bearing on the affected side, the other indicators were better in rPMS group than in the control group (P < 0.001). ConclusionrPMS can promote the recovery of ankle motor function and balance of stroke patients, and the effect combining with HBOT is better.

Brain and muscle activation under mirror neuron-based training strategies: a near-infrared spectroscopy and surface electromyography study / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the neuromuscular control mechanism of training strategies based on mirror neuron system (MNS): action observation (AO), action execution (AE) and action imitation (AO+AE) using functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) and surface electromyography (sEMG). MethodsFrom July, 2022 to February, 2023, 64 healthy adults were asked to finish four tasks: watching landscape video (control), watching landscape video and acting right wrist and hand extension (AE), watching right wrist and hand extension video (AO), and watching right wrist and hand extension video and acting right wrist and hand extension (AO+AE). A block design was adopted, five times a task in a block, eight cycles, random orders in videos and tasks. The activation of each channel and regions of interest (ROI, namely BA40, BA44, BA45, BA46, BA6 and BA7) in left MNS regions was detected with fNIRS synchronously, as well as the average electromyography (AEMG) of extensor digitorum and extensor carpi radialis with sEMG. ResultsCompared with the control condition, MNS activated in AO, AE and AO+AE conditions, and the intensities mildly increased in turn. Compared with the control condition, 15 channels activated in AO condition, 15 channels activated in AE condition, and all 20 channels activated in AO+AE condition; and the activation intensities of most channels were AO+AE > AE > AO. Four ROI, BA40, BA46, BA6 and BA7, activated in AO condition, all the six ROI activated in AE and AO+AE conditions, and the activation intensities of most ROI were AO+AE > AE > AO. The standardized AEMG of extensor digitorum and extensor carpi radialis were higher in AO+AE condition than in AE condition (|t| > 4.24, P < 0.001). ConclusionMNS has been activated during action observation, execution and imitation, and the ranges and intensities of activation increase in turn. The target muscles activate more during imitation than during execution. Synchronous application of fNIRS and sEMG is feasible in the study of neural mechanism of rehabilitation strategies based on mirror neuron theory.

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with task-oriented rehabilitation training on forelimb motor dysfunction in rats with spinal cord injury / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with task-oriented rehabilitation training single pellet reaching and grasping (SPG) on the motor function of forelimb in rats with unilateral contusion of C5 spinal cord. MethodsA total of 60 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham operation group (sham group), spinal cord injury (SCI) group, tDCS group, SPG group, false group and tDCS+SPG group, with ten rats in each group. Only C5 lamina was removed in the sham group, and the C5 spinal cord contusion model was established by IH spinal cord impactor in the other five groups. The rats received tDCS in tDCS group, SPG in SPG group, tDCS without current in false group, tDCS combined with SPG in tDCS+SPG group, and no treatment in the SCI and the sham groups. The rats were evaluated with Rearing and Grooming tests, and motor-evoked potential (MEP). ResultsFour weeks after operation, compared with SCI group, the scores of Rearing and Grooming increased in tDCS group and tDCS+SPG group (P < 0.05), and they were more in the tDCS+SPG group than in tDCS group and SPG group (P < 0.05); the score of Grooming increased in SPG group (P < 0.05); while the amplitude of MEP increased in tDCS group, SPG group and tDCS+SPG group (P < 0.05), and the latency shortened in tDCS group and tDCS+SPG group (P < 0.05); and the amplitude increased more in tDCS+SPG group than in tDCS group and SPG group (P < 0.01). ConclusiontDCS could promote the recovery of motor function in rats with SCI, and the combination therapy of tDCS and task-oriented rehabilitation training is more effective.

Effect of hyperbaric oxygen combined with dynamic scalp acupuncture on motor function for stroke patients with hemiplegia / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen combined with dynamic scalp acupuncture on motor function for stroke patients with hemiplegia, and compare the effect of dynamic scalp acupuncture inside or outside hyperbaric oxygen chamber. MethodsFrom January, 2021 to June, 2022, 72 stroke inpatients with hemiplegia in Fuyang People's Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 24), combination group 1 (n = 24) and combination group 2 (n = 24). All the patients received routine treatment, while the control group received dynamic scalp acupuncture, the combination group 1 received hyperbaric oxygen and dynamic scalp acupuncture outside the hyperbaric oxygen chamber, and the combination group 2 received hyperbaric oxygen and dynamic scalp acupuncture inside the hyperbaric oxygen chamber, for four weeks. They were assessed with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Barthel Index (MBI), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) before and after treatment. The rest pulse oximetry saturation (SpO2)，the lowest SpO2 (SpO2L) and the variation of SpO2 (ΔSpO2) were measured in the first and last treatment. ResultsThe scores of NHISS, MBI, BBS and FMA increased in all the groups after treatment (|t| > 7.681, P < 0.001), and they were more in both the combination group 1 and the combination group 2 than in the control group (P < 0.05). During the first and last treatment, the rest SpO2 and SpO2L increased in the combination group 2 compared with the control group and the combination group 1 (P < 0.05), while ΔSpO2 decreased (P < 0.05); and SpO2L increased in the combination group 1 compared with the control group during the last treatment. ConclusionThe combination of hyperbaric oxygen and dynamic scalp acupuncture can significantly improve motor function and oxygen-carrying capacity in stroke patients with hemiplegia.

Effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with mirror therapy on upper limb motor function and neuroelectrophysiology in stroke patients with hemiplegia / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of 1 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with mirror therapy on upper limb motor function and cortical neurophysiological indicators in stroke patients with hemiplegia. MethodsSixty stroke patients who were admitted to Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, from October, 2022 to March, 2023 were randomly assigned to control group (n = 15), rTMS group (n = 15), mirror therapy group (n = 15) and combined group (n = 15). All groups received routine medicine and rehabilitation. In addition, the control group received sham rTMS and sham mirror therapy, rTMS group received 1 Hz rTMS and sham mirror therapy, the mirror therapy group received sham rTMS and mirror therapy, and the combined group received 1Hz rTMS combined with mirror therapy, for four weeks. Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) and Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) were used to evaluate the motor function of the affected upper limb. The motor-evoked potential (MEP) amplitude and central motor conduction time (CMCT) of the affected cortex were measured using a transcranial magnetic stimulation device. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and ARAT, and the amplitude of MEP significantly improved in all groups (|t| > 3.854, P < 0.001), while the CMCT significantly shortened (t > 5.967, P < 0.001). Compared to the control group, rTMS group, the mirror therapy group and the combined group showed more significant improvement in the scores of FMA-UE and ARAT, and the amplitude of MEP, and shorter CMCT (P < 0.05). When compared to rTMS group and the mirror therapy group, the combined group showed more significant improvement the scores of FMA-UE and ARAT, and the amplitude of MEP, and shorter CMCT (P < 0.05). There was significant positive correlation of the scores of FMA-UE and ARAT with the amplitude of MEP, and negative correlation with the CMCT in all groups (R2 > 0.804, P < 0.001). ConclusionThe combination of 1 Hz rTMS and mirror therapy contributes to the post-stroke brain functional remodeling and facilitates upper limb motor recovery in stroke patients with hemiplegia.