Transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of phantom limb pain: a systematic review / Estimulação magnética transcraniana no tratamento da dor do membro fantasma: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Background Phantom limb pain (PLP) occurs after amputations and can persist in a chronic and debilitating way. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation method capable of influencing brain function and modulating cortical excitability. Its effectiveness in treating chronic pain is promising. Objective To evaluate the evidence on the efficacy and safety of using rTMS in the treatment of PLP, observing the stimulation parameters used, side effects, and benefits of the therapy. Methods This is a systematic review of scientific articles published in national and international literature using electronic platforms. Results Two hundred and fifty two articles were identified. Two hundred and forty six publications were removed because they were duplicated or met the exclusion criteria. After selection, six studies were reviewed, those being two randomized clinical trials and four case reports. All evaluated studies indicated some degree of benefit of rTMS to relieve painful symptoms, even temporarily. Pain perception was lower at the end of treatment when compared to the period prior to the sessions and remained during patient follow-up. There was no standardization of the stimulation parameters used. There were no reports of serious adverse events. The effects of long-term therapy have not been evaluated. Conclusion There are some benefits, even if temporary, in the use of rTMS to relieve painful symptoms in PLP. High-frequency stimulation at M1 demonstrated a significant analgesic effect. Given the potential that has been demonstrated, but limited by the paucity of high-quality studies, further controlled studies are needed to establish and standardize the clinical use of the method.

Resumo Antecedentes A dor do membro fantasma (DMF) ocorre após amputações e pode persistir de forma crônica e debilitante. A estimulação magnética transcraniana repetitiva (EMTr) é um método de neuromodulação não invasivo capaz de influenciar a função cerebral e modular a excitabilidade cortical. Sua eficácia no tratamento da dor crônica é promissora. Objetivo Avaliar as evidências sobre a eficácia e segurança do uso da EMTr no tratamento da DMF, observando os parâmetros de estimulação utilizados, efeitos colaterais e benefícios da terapia. Métodos Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática de artigos científicos publicados na literatura nacional e internacional utilizando plataformas eletrônicas. Resultados Foram identificados 252 artigos. Duzentas e quarenta e seis publicações foram removidas por estarem duplicadas ou atenderem aos critérios de exclusão. Após a seleção, foram revisados seis estudos, sendo dois ensaios clínicos randomizados e quatro relatos de caso. Todos os estudos avaliados indicaram algum grau de benefício da EMTr no alívio dos sintomas dolorosos, mesmo que temporariamente. A percepção da dor foi menor ao final do tratamento quando comparada ao período anterior às sessões e permaneceu durante o acompanhamento do paciente. Não houve padronização dos parâmetros de estimulação utilizados. Não houve relatos de eventos adversos graves. Os efeitos da terapia a longo prazo não foram avaliados. Conclusão Existem alguns benefícios, mesmo que temporários, no uso da EMTr para alívio dos sintomas dolorosos na DMF. A estimulação de alta frequência em M1 demonstrou um efeito analgésico significativo. Dado o potencial demonstrado, mas limitado pela escassez de estudos de alta qualidade, são necessários mais estudos controlados para estabelecer e padronizar o uso clínico do método.

An electric field modeling study with meta-analysis to understand the antidepressant effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)

Objective: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has mixed effects for major depressive disorder (MDD) symptoms, partially owing to large inter-experimental variability in tDCS protocols and their correlated induced electric fields (E-fields). We investigated whether the E-field strength of distinct tDCS parameters was associated with antidepressant effect. Methods: A meta-analysis was performed with placebo-controlled clinical trials of tDCS enrolling MDD patients. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 10, 2023. Effect sizes of tDCS protocols were correlated with E-field simulations (SimNIBS) of brain regions of interest (bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [DLPFC] and bilateral subgenual anterior cingulate cortex [sgACC]). Moderators of tDCS responses were also investigated. Results: A total of 20 studies were included (21 datasets, 1,008 patients), using 11 distinct tDCS protocols. Results revealed a moderate effect for MDD (g = 0.41, 95%CI 0.18-0.64), while cathode position and treatment strategy were found to be moderators of response. A negative association between effect size and tDCS-induced E-field magnitude was seen, with stronger E-fields in the right frontal and medial parts of the DLPFC (targeted by the cathode) leading to smaller effects. No association was found for the left DLPFC and the bilateral sgACC. An optimized tDCS protocol is proposed. Conclusions: Our results highlight the need for a standardized tDCS protocol in MDD clinical trials. Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42022296246.

Historia y principios básicos de la estimulación magnética transcraneal

La estimulación magnética transcraneal (EMT) es una técnica no invasiva que consiste en la utilización de campos magnéticos para estimular a las neuronas de la corteza cerebral. Si bien la electricidad se ha pretendido emplear previamente en el campo de la medicina, la historia de la EMT se remonta al descubrimiento de la inducción electromagnética, por Faraday, en el siglo XIX. Sin embargo, no fue hasta la década de 1980 cuando Anthony Barker, en la Universidad de Sheffield, desarrolló el primer dispositivo de EMT. La EMT funciona mediante una bobina colocada en el cuero cabelludo, la cual produce un campo magnético que puede atravesar el cráneo y estimular las neuronas corticales. La intensidad y la frecuencia del campo magnético pueden ajustarse para dirigirse a zonas específicas del cerebro y producir efectos excitatorios e inhibitorios. Los principios de la EMT se basan en el concepto de neuroplasticidad, que se refiere a la capacidad del cerebro para cambiar y adaptarse en respuesta a nuevas experiencias y estímulos. Al estimular las neuronas del cerebro con la EMT, es posible inducir cambios en la actividad neuronal y la conectividad, lo que a su vez puede provocar cambios cognitivos y en el estado de ánimo.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate neurons in the cerebral cortex. While electricity has previously been intended to be used in the medical field, the history of TMS dates back to the discovery of electromagnetic induction by Faraday in the 19th century. However, it was not until the 1980s when Anthony Barker developed the first TMS device at the University of Sheffield. TMS works by means of a coil placed against the scalp, thereby producing a magnetic field. This magnetic field can pass through the skull and stimulate cortical neurons. The intensity and frequency of the magnetic field can be adjusted to target specific areas of the brain and produce excitatory and inhibitory effects. The principles of TMS are based on the concept of neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences and stimuli. By stimulating neurons in the brain with TMS, it is possible to cause changes in neuronal activity and connectivity, which in turn can lead to cognitive and mood changes.

Parameters and results of non-invasive neuromodulation in the management of chronic pelvic pain: integrative literature review / Parâmetros e resultados da neuromodulação não invasiva no manejo da dor pélvica crônica: revisão integrativa da literatura

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) is characterized by persistent pain in the pelvic region for more than six months, affecting both men and women and causing significant impairment in quality of life (QoL). Two of the main non-invasive approaches are Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS). These techniques aim to modulate neural activity and promote pain relief. In this context, this research conducted an integrative literature review to summarize the results of relevant studies, aiming to identify the key parameters used in TMS and tDCS for CPP treatment. The objective was to assess the effect and efficacy of non-invasive neuromodulation as a therapeutic intervention for CPP. CONTENTS: For this integrative review, electronic searches were conducted in Pubmed, Scielo, PEDro, Medline, Cochrane, and Scopus databases, examining studies in Portuguese, English, or Spanish. The keywords "pelvic pain," "transcranial direct current stimulation," and "transcranial magnetic stimulation" and their derivatives were searched in the three languages in studies from 2013 to 2023. Seven studies were included for analysis. Both techniques showed positive effects in managing CPP, improving pain levels and quality of life to a relevant extent. However, there is still no consensus on the parameters applied in TMS and tDCS techniques for CPP. CONCLUSION: Non-invasive neuromodulation improves pain levels and quality of life in patients with CPP. Further studies are needed to establish more reliable parameter relationships, and the limited number of studies restricts definitive conclusions on the subject.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A dor pélvica crônica (DPC) é caracterizada pela persistência da dor na região pélvica por mais de seis meses, afetando tanto homens quanto mulheres e causando prejuízos significativos na qualidade de vida (QV). Duas das principais abordagens não invasivas são Estimulação Magnética Transcraniana (EMT) e a Estimulação Transcraniana por Corrente Contínua (ETCC). Nesse contexto, esta pesquisa realizou uma revisão integrativa da literatura com o intuito de resumir os resultados de estudos relevantes, buscando identificar os principais parâmetros utilizados no tratamento da DPC. O objetivo foi fornecer uma visão abrangente sobre essas técnicas de neuromodulação e suas aplicações específicas no controle da dor pélvica crônica. CONTEÚDO: Para esta revisão integrativa, as buscas eletrônicas ocorreram nas bases de dados Pubmed, Scielo, PEDro, Medline, Cochrane e Scopus, verificando estudos em português, inglês ou espanhol. "Dor pélvica", "estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua" e "estimulação magnética transcraniana" e suas derivações foram pesquisadas nos três idiomas em estudos entre 2013 e 2023. Sete estudos foram incluídos para análise. Ambas as técnicas apresentaram efeitos positivos no manejo da DPC, melhorando os níveis de dor e a QV em proporções relevantes. Entretanto, ainda não há um consenso sobre os parâmetros aplicados nas técnicas de EMT e ETCC para DPC. CONCLUSÃO: A neuromodulação não invasiva melhora os níveis de dor e a QV em pacientes com DPC. São necessários mais estudos para que relações mais confiáveis de parâmetros possam ser preestabelecidas e a ausência de um maior número de estudos limita conclusões acerca do assunto.

Endarterectomía carotídea en paciente con estenosis aórtica crítica. Importancia de la anestesia regional y del neuromonitoreo / Carotid endarterectomy in a patient with critical aortic stenosis. Importance of regional anesthesia and transoperative neurological monitoring

Resumen: La estenosis carotídea (EC) ocurre en 13% de los pacientes con estenosis valvular aórtica (EVA). El riesgo de evento vascular cerebral (EVC), en los pacientes con EC significativa sometidos a cirugía valvular cardíaca, puede aumentar hasta 11%. Someter a un paciente con EVA crítica y fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) disminuida a endarterectomía carotídea es todo un reto anestésico, cuyo principal objetivo es evitar la hipotensión y el bajo gasto cardíaco. La anestesia regional es una opción para estos pacientes. Presentamos el caso de un hombre de 70 años con diagnóstico de EC significativa y EVA crítica con disfunción ventricular izquierda, al que se realizó endarterectomía carotídea con bloqueo del plexo cervical superficial por alto riesgo de colapso circulatorio. Dicha estrategia anestésica permitió mantener al paciente despierto durante la cirugía, al valorar continuamente su estado neurológico. Asimismo, se documentaron los cambios transoperatorios en el NIRS (Near-infrared spectroscopy) cerebral y Doppler transcraneal (DTC), los cuales se correlacionaron con el estado clínico del paciente. En un segundo tiempo se hizo cambio valvular aórtico sin complicaciones. En este caso destaca la importancia de la anestesia regional y el monitoreo neurológico con Doppler transcraneal, en pacientes sometidos a endarterectomía carotídea con alto riesgo quirúrgico por EVA crítica.

Abstract: Carotid stenosis occurs in 13% of patients with aortic valve stenosis. The risk of stroke in patients with significant carotid stenosis undergoing heart valve surgery may increase to 11%. Proposing a patient with critical aortic valve stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction to carotid endarterectomy is an anesthetic challenge, where the objective is to avoid hypotension and low cardiac output. Regional anesthesia is an option for these patients. Due to the high incidence of intraoperative stroke during carotid endarterectomy, continuous neurological monitoring is of relevance. We present the case of a 70-year-old man diagnosed with significant carotid stenosis and critical aortic valve stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction who underwent carotid endarterectomy with superficial cervical plexus block due to a high risk of circulatory collapse. In addition, this anesthetic strategy made it possible to keep the patient awake during surgery, and to continuously assess their neurological status. Likewise, transoperative changes in brain NIRS and transcranial Doppler were documented, which correlated with the patient's clinical status. In a second time, aortic valve replacement was performed without complications. This case highlights the importance of regional anesthesia and neurological monitoring in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy with high surgical risk due to critical aortic valve stenosis.

Estimulação Transcraniana para Transtornos do Sono: uma revisão sistemática / Transcranial Stimulation in Sleep Disorders: a systematic review / Estimulación Transcraneal para los Trastornos del Sueño: una revisión sistemática

Os transtornos do sono podem ter várias consequências para a cognição, comportamento e vida social das pessoas. No entanto, a terapia utilizada para avaliar e intervir nesses transtornos ainda não está consolidada. Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a aplicabilidade e eficácia da estimulação transcraniana (ETCA / ETCC / EMTr) nos transtornos do sono. Foi realizada uma busca sistemática de acordo com as diretrizes do PRISMA nas bases de dados Web of Science, PubMed, LILACS e SciELO. Inicialmente, foram encontrados 448 artigos, de acordo com os critérios de elegibilidade. O banco de dados de evidências de fisioterapia (PEDro) foi utilizado para avaliar a qualidade metodológica dos 11 artigos finais. Em geral, os resultados indicam que há tanto relatos favoráveis quanto desfavoráveis à eficácia do uso terapêutico das técnicas de estimulação transcraniana nos transtornos do sono e, portanto, ainda se configura como uma questão em aberto, dependendo de múltiplos fatores metodológicos e conceituais.

Sleep disorders can have several consequences on people's cognition, behavior and social life. However, the therapy used to assess and intervene in these disorders is not yet consolidated. In this context, the aim of this study was to verify the applicability and effectiveness of transcranial stimulation (tACS / tDCS / rTMS) in sleep disorders. A systematic search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines in the Web of Science, PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO databases. Initially, 448 articles were found, according to the eligibility criteria. The physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) was used to assess the methodological quality of the 11 final articles. In general, the results indicate that there are both favorable and unfavorable reports on the effectiveness of the therapeutic use of transcranial stimulation techniques in sleep disorders and, therefore, it is still an open question, depending on multiple methodological and conceptual factors.

Trastornos del sueño pueden tener varias consecuencias para la cognición, el comportamiento y la vida social de las personas. La terapia utilizada para evaluar e intervenir en estos trastornos aún no está consolidada. En este contexto, el objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la aplicabilidad y efectividad de la estimulación transcraneal (ETCA / ETCC / EMTr) en los trastornos del sueño. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática según las guías PRISMA en las bases de datos Web of Science, PubMed, LILACS y SciELO. Inicialmente se encontraron 448 artículos, según los criterios de elegibilidad. Se utilizó la base de datos PEDro para evaluar la calidad metodológica de los 11 artículos finales. En general, los resultados indican que existen informes tanto favorables como desfavorables sobre la efectividad del uso terapéutico de las técnicas de estimulación transcraneal en los trastornos del sueño y, por tanto, sigue siendo una cuestión abierta, dependiendo de múltiples factores metodológicos y conceptuales.

Transcranial sonography image characteristics of substantia nigra in different Parkinson′s disease subtypes and their correlation with iron metabolism / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To explore the pathological mechanism of SN hyperechogenicity by investigating the characteristics of substantia nigra (SN) hyperechogenicity on transcranial sonography (TCS) and serum iron metabolism parameters in the postural instability gait difficulty and tremor dominant subtypes of Parkinson′s disease (PD), and the correlation between them.Methods:A total of 155 PD patients recruited in Parkinson′s Disease Specialty in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from January 2019 to December 2021 were divided into postural instability gait difficulty group( n=95) and tremor dominant group( n=60). Meanwhile, 49 healthy gender- and age-matched healthy individuals who sought for physical examination during the same period were included as the control group. All subjects underwent TCS and blood test, and the echo of SN between the postural instability gait difficulty group and tremor dominant group, serum iron metabolism parameters among the three groups were compared. The postural instability gait difficulty group and tremor dominant group were subdivided into with SN hyperechogenicity (SN+ )subgroup and without SN hyperechogenicity (SN-) subgroup respectively according to TCS results, and the differences in serum iron metabolism parameters between the subgroups were further compared. The association between SN hyperechogenicity and serum iron metabolism parameters of the postural instability gait difficulty group and tremor dominant group were further analyzed. Results:The total area of bilateral SN+ , the area of SN+ on the larger side, and the ratio of the total area of SN+ to the midbrain area (S/M) in postural instability gait difficulty group were larger than those in tremor dominant group (all P<0.001). The value of serum ceruloplasmin and transferrin in both postural instability gait difficulty group and tremor dominant group were lower than those in control group (all P<0.001), and compared with tremor dominant group and control group, the postural instability gait difficulty group had lower serum ferritin(all P<0.01). In both postural instability gait difficulty group and tremor dominant group, serum ceruloplasmin in SN+ subgroup was lower than that in SN-subgroup ( P=0.001, 0.032). Moreover, there was a negative correlation between serum transferrin and the area of SN hyperechogenicity in two subgroups(postural instability gait difficulty group: rs=-0.454, P<0.001; tremor dominant group: rs=-0.494, P<0.001). Conclusions:Compared with the tremor dominant patients, the postural instability gait difficulty patients have larger area of SN hyperechogenicity and lower serum ferritin level. The area of SN hyperechogenicity is significantly negatively correlated with serum transferrin level, indicating that the production of this imaging characteristics is related to iron metabolism.

Research progress on cognitive impairment and intervention in patients with depression / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders, which can be accompanied by cognitive symptoms in addition to core symptoms.With the improvement of the awareness of the disease, people pay more attention to the cognitive symptoms of depression. The cognitive impairment of patients not only appears in the onset of the disease, but also persists during the remission of the disease, which has a negative impact on the patients’ social function. Some cognitive assessment tools such as cognitive tests, event-related potential(ERP) and eye movement tracking technology have been used to assess cognitive impairment in patients with depression, which show that there are multidimensional cognitive impairments. Some therapeutic methods such as exercise therapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation(rTMS) and drug therapy have shown the potential to improve the cognitive function of patients with depression. This article reviews related researches in recent years to explore the cognitive impairment and therapeutic methods of patients with depression.

Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with paroxetine hydrochloride on executive function in depressed adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with paroxetine hydrochloride on executive function in depressed adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury.Methods:The clinical data of 120 depressed adolescents with depressive disorders who were admitted to The Second Hospital of Jinhua from August 2021 to July 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. They were randomly assigned to undergo treatment either with paroxetine hydrochloride (control group, n = 60) or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with paroxetine hydrochloride (observation group, n = 60). All patients were treated for 2 months. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-24 (HAMD-24) score, Non-suicidal Self-injury Behavior and Function Scale for Adolescents (ANSSIQ) score, executive function, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and clinical efficacy were determined in each group. Results:After treatment, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-24 score in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group [(15.85 ± 1.08) points) vs. (18.72±1.21) points, t = 13.71, P < 0.001). After treatment, the number of self-injury attacks, number of self-injury impulsions, and the intensity of self-injury thought within 2 weeks in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group ( t = 3.42, 3.03, 1.92, all P < 0.05). The scores of the Trail Making Test, Stroop Word test, Stroop Color test, and Stroop Color-Word Interference Test were significantly higher in the observation group than those in the control group ( t = 2.66, 3.33, 3.97, 4.64, all P < 0.01). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and 5-hydroxytryptamine levels in the observation group were (11.45 ± 1.79) μg/L and (136.68 ± 11.90) μg/L, respectively, which were significantly higher than (9.06±2.21) μg/L and (124.82 ± 10.34) μg/L in the control group ( t = 6.51, 5.83, both P < 0.001). The total response rate in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group (91.7% vs. 78.3%, Z = 2.73, P = 0.006). Conclusion:Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with paroxetine hydrochloride is highly effective on depressive disorders in adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury. The combined therapy can reduce symptoms, improve executive function and cognitive function, and optimize serological indicators, and thereby deserves the clinical promotion.

Curative effects of Beck's cognitive therapy combined with transcranial magnetic stimulation on post-stroke sleep disorders in patients / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the curative effects of Beck's cognitive therapy (BCT) combined with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on post-stroke sleep disorders in patients.Methods:A total of 120 patients with post-stroke sleep disorders who were diagnosed and treated in Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine between January and December 2020 were included in this study. They were randomly assigned to undergo TMS (TMS group), BCT (BCT group), or TMS plus BCT (combined group) ( n = 40/group). Before and after treatment, sleep quality and mental state scores were evaluated in each group. Results:After treatment, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score in the combined group [(5.68 ± 0.33) points] was significantly lower than that in the TMS group [(9.11 ± 0.83) points] and BCT group [(11.37 ± 1.06) points, F = 512.63, P < 0.001]. Sleep efficiency in the combined group [(56.73 ± 2.62)%] was significantly higher than that in the TMS group [(39.55 ± 3.02)%] and BCT group [(35.23 ± 1.41)%, F = 863.59, P < 0.001]. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) scores and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores were significantly lower in the combined group compared with the TMS and BCT groups ( F = 412.52, 310.60, both P < 0.001). Conclusion:BCT combined with TMS can effectively improve sleep quality and reduce negative emotions in patients with post-stroke sleep disorders.

Effects of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with music biofeedback on insomnia / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the effects of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with music biofeedback on insomnia.Methods:Sixty patients with insomnia who received treatment in Outpatient Department of Seventh People's Hospital of Dongyang from January to August 2021 were included in this study. They were randomly divided into an observation group ( n = 30) and a control group ( n = 30) using the random number table. The control group was given music biofeedback therapy and conventional drug treatment, and the observation group was treated with rTMS based on music biofeedback therapy. The changes in polysomnography sleep structure and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score after 1 month of treatment relative to before treatment were determined in each group. Results:After 1 month of treatment, the total sleep time, sleep efficiency, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, non-REM sleep phase II (N2%) and non-REM sleep phase III (N3%) in the observation group were (419.87 ± 42.63) minutes, (83.69 ± 13.39)%, (25.27 ± 3.26)%, (53.75 ± 11.36)% and (16.27 ± 2.25)%, respectively, and they were (388.74 ± 40.39) minutes, (76.38 ± 13.17)%, (23.16 ± 2.68)%, (51.62 ± 12.27)%, and (14.36 ± 2.21)%, respectively. There were significant differences in these indices between the two groups ( t = -2.90, -2.13, -2.22, -2.26, -3.31, P = 0.005, 0.037, 0.030, 0.027, 0.002). The sleep latency, actual wake time, numbet of awakenings, non-REM sleep phase I (N1%), and total score of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index in the observation group were (24.16 ± 7.82) minutes, (23.18 ± 6.95) minutes, (1.76 ± 0.28) times, (9.74 ± 2.12)%, (9.17 ± 1.56) minutes, respectively. They were (28.35 ± 7.74) minutes, (28.36 ± 7.21) minutes, (2.25 ± 0.79) times, (11.12 ± 1.17)%, and (10.26 ± 1.42) minutes, respectively in the control group. There were significant differences in these indices between the two groups ( t = 2.09, 2.83, 3.20, 3.12, 2.83, P = 0.041, 0.006, 0.002, 0.003, 0.038). Conclusion:rTMS combined with music biofeedback for the treatment of insomnia can effectively improve sleep quality in patients with insomnia.

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with contralateral control functional electrical stimulation on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS) combined with contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation (CCFES) on upper limb motor function of stroke patients. MethodsFrom January to December, 2022, 60 stroke patients from Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into atDCS group (n = 20), CCFES group (n = 20) and combined group (n = 20). All the groups accepted routine rehabilitation, while atDCS group accepted atDCS on the primary motor (M1) area of the damaged hemisphere, CCFES group accepted CCFES on the triceps brachii and extensors carpi muscles, and the combined group accepted atDCS on the M1 area of damaged hemisphere and CCFES on triceps brachii and extensors carpi muscles, for six weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), and the electromyography root mean square (RMS) ratio of bilateral triceps brachii muscles and extensor carpi muscles, before and after treatment. ResultsThe FMA-UE score, WMFT score, and the RMS ratio of the triceps brachii muscles and extensor carpi muscles improved in all the groups after treatment (|t| > 5.007, P < 0.001), and improved the most in the combined group (F > 14.492, P < 0.001). ConclusionatDCS combined with CCFES can effectively improve upper limb motor function of stroke patients.

Effect of anodal or cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy of anodal or cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS and ctDCS) on upper limb function of stroke patients with moderate to severe upper extremity impairment. MethodsFrom January to September, 2022, 69 patients in Zhongda Hospital Southeast University were randomly divided into control group (n = 23), atDCS group (n = 23) and ctDCS group (n = 23). All the groups received conventional rehabilitation. Moreover, atDCS group received atDCS over the M1 area of the affected hemisphere, ctDCS group received ctDCS over the M1 area of the unaffected hemisphere, and the control group received placebo stimulation. Before and four weeks after treatment, they were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and modified Barthel index (MBI). ResultsBefore treatment, there was no significant difference in the scores of FMA-UE, WMFT and MBI among groups (F < 1.165, P > 0.05). After treatment, all the scores improved significantly in all the groups (|t| > 6.412, P < 0.001), and were higher in the atDCS group and ctDCS group than in the control group (P < 0.05), however, no significant difference was found between the atDCS group and ctDCS group (P > 0.05). ConclusionBoth atDCS and ctDCS could improve the upper limb motor function and activities of daily living of stroke patients with moderate to severe upper extremity impairment.

Effect of graded motor imagery combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effects of graded motor imagery (GMI) combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on upper limb function and activities of daily living of stroke patients. MethodsFrom June, 2022 to February, 2023, 45 stroke patients from Xuzhou Rehabilitation Hospital and Xuzhou Central Hospital were recruited and divided into control group (n = 15), GMI group (n = 15) and combined group (n = 15) randomly. All the groups received conventional rehabilitation, in addition, GMI group received GMI and the combined group received GMI and rTMS, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), modified Barthel Index (MBI) and Hong Kong version of Functional Test for the Hemiplegic Upper Extremity (FTHUE-HK) before and after treatment. ResultsThe scores of FMA-UE, ARAT and MBI, and grades of FTHUE-HK improved in all the groups after treatment (|t| > 9.681, P < 0.001), and all these indexes were the best in the combined group (F > 13.241, P < 0.001). ConclusionGMI combined with rTMS can further improve the motor function of upper limbs and activities of daily living of stroke patients.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation for stroke in recent five years: a visualized analysis / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo visually analyze the current status, hot spots and frontiers of the researches on transcranial magnetic stimulation for stroke in recent five years. MethodsLiterature related to transcranial magnetic stimulation for stroke were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2022, and a visualized analysis was performed using CiteSpace 6.1.R6 software. ResultsThe number of published papers increased year by year, the most prolific author was Abo Masahiro, the country with the largest number of articles was China, and Sun Yat-sen University published the most papers. The hot keywords were cerebral cortex, functional magnetic resonance imaging, cortical excitability, plasticity, etc. The top five keywords of bursting strength were unilateral spatial neglect, poststroke, neuropathic pain, cortical plasticity, and trancallosal inhibition. ConclusionThe popularity of studies on transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of stroke is increasing year by year. In the future, attention can be paid to the therapeutic effect of transcranial magnetic stimulation on unilateral spatial neglect, neuropathic pain, etc. Additionally, the influence of transcranial magnetic stimulation on cortical plasticity can be further studied.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for lower limb dysfunction post stroke: a scoping review / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo summarize and analyze the protocols of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in the treatment of post-stroke lower limb dysfunction. MethodsLiterature about rTMS for lower limb dysfunction of patients post stroke were retrieved from Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI, and Wanfang Data from inception to August 17, 2022. The quality of the literature was evaluated with Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Literature quality, data extraction and scoping review were performed by two researchers. ResultsA total of 21 studies were included, in which 20 studies suggested that rTMS treatment could promote the recovery of lower limb motor function after stroke. One study showed negative result. rTMS interventions were reported safe, with no serious adverse reactions. There were great heterogeneity in the demographic and clinical information, study protocols, stimulation parameters, coil types, targets of stimulation, and motor-evoked potential measurement in the included studies. ConclusionThe future protocols of rTMS need to be combined with stroke stage and severity of injury. There is a demand for more real vs. sham rTMS studies, reporting similar designs with sufficient information, to achieve a significant level of evidence regarding the use of rTMS in post-stroke patients.

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

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on motor function of upper limbs of stroke patients with hemiplegia. MethodsFrom October, 2020 to October, 2021, 65 patients from Wuhan No.1 Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 32) and observation group (n = 33). All the patients received routine rehabilitation and mirror therapy, and the observation group received tDCS in addition, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) and modified Barthel index (MBI) before and after treatment. ResultsThe scores of FMA-UE, ARAT and MBI improved in the both groups after treatment (|t| > 10.455, Z = -2.793, P < 0.001), and all the scores were better in the observation group than in the control group (|t| > 4.152, Z = -2.045, P < 0.05). ConclusionThe combination of tDCS can effectively promote the recovery of upper limb motor function of stroke patients.

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with constraint-induced weight training of the affected lower limb on Pusher syndrome after stroke / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with constraint-induced weight training (CIWT) on Pusher syndrome after stroke. MethodsA total of 60 stroke inpatients with Pusher syndrome in the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from January to December, 2021 were randomly divided into tDCS group, CIWT group and combination group, with 20 cases in each group. The three groups accepted routine rehabilitation training, the tDCS group received anode tDCS, the CIWT group received CIWT of the affected lower limb, and the combination group received CIWT of the affected lower limb and tDCS, for eight weeks. They were assessed with Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Lower Extremities (FMA-LE), Burke Lateropulsion Scale (BLS) and Holden Walking Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) before and after treatment. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of BBS, FMA-LE, BLS and FAC improved (|t| > 1.452, P < 0.05) in all the groups, and improved the most in the combination group (|F| > 1.827, P < 0.05). ConclusiontDCS combined with CIWT of the affected lower extremity can effectively improve the function of stroke patients with Pusher syndrome.

Effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation rope training and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on upper limb motor function of stroke patients with hemiplegia / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of combination of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) rope training and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on upper limb motor function of stroke patients with hemiplegia. MethodsFrom March, 2021 to February, 2022, 90 stroke inpatients with hemiplegia in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University were divided into control group (n = 30), rope group (n = 30) and combination group (n = 30) randomly. All the groups received routine rehabilitation, while the control group received routine PNF training, the rope group received PNF rope training, and the combination group received PNF rope training and rTMS, for four weeks. They were assessed with Functional Test for the Hemiplegic Upper Extremity-Hong Kong version (FTHUE-HK), Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) and modified Barthel Index (MBI) before and after treatment. ResultsThe scores of FTHUE-HK, FMA-UE and MBI increased in all the three groups after treatment (t > 2.167, P < 0.05), and they were more in the combination group than in the rope group (P < 0.05), and in the rope group than in the control group (P < 0.05). ConclusionThe combination of PNF rope training and rTMS is more effective on motor function of upper limbs of stroke patients with hemiplegia than PNF training alone.

Effect of low frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with bilateral isokinematic training on upper limb motor function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with bilateral isokinematic training (BIT) on upper limb motor function and activities of daily living of stroke patients. MethodsFrom September, 2021 to September, 2022, 60 stroke inpatients in Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into rTMS group (n = 20), BIT group (n = 20) and combination group (n = 20). All the patients accepted routine rehabilitation, moreover, rTMS group accepted 1 Hz rTMS on healthy side, BIT group accepted BIT, and the combination group accepted the combination of 1 Hz rTMS on healthy side and BIT, for four weeks. They were evaluated with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), Carroll Upper Extremities Function Test (UEFT) and modified Barthel Index (MBI) before and after treatment. ResultsThe scores of FMA-UE, WMFT, UEFT and MBI significantly improved in all the groups after treatment (|t| > 5.052, P < 0.001), and improved the most in the combination group (F > 9.834, P < 0.001). ConclusionBoth low-frequency rTMS and BIT can effectively improve upper limb motor function and activities of daily living of stroke patients, and the combination of them is more effective.