The effects of TENS on metatarsus plantarflexion and inversion in stroke patients / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the effects of TENS on metatarsus plantar flexion and inversion in stroke patients,and to explore its mechanism.Methods Thirty-two stroke patients with gastrocnemius spasticity were randomly divided into a control group (n=16) and a TENS group (n=16).All patients were treated with foot sup- ports,neurodevelopmental and manipulation therapies.In addition,the TENS group received TENS on the anterior tibialis,peroneus longus and brevis muscles.All patients were assessed in terms of their Chinese stroke scale(CSS) and H reflex scores before and after therapy.Results Compared with those in the control group,the H reflex scores in the TENS group were obviously decreased,while H reflex latency was prolonged and H/M was reduced. Gait in the TENS group was evidently improved.Conclusion TENS is an effective therapy to decrease gastrocnemi- us spasticity and to improve the gait of stroke patients.