Publications
Effects of 1 Hz Low-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined with Scapulohumeral Training on Upper Limb Functionin Stroke Patients
Authors: Shin-Kyu Park 1, Byung-Il Yang 2, Sung-Ryong Ma 3
Affiliations:
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Bobath Memorial Hospital, Seongnam 13552, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Sangji University, Wonju 26339, Republic of Korea
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Chosun University, Gwangju 61452, Republic of Korea
Journal: Journal of Magnetics - December 2024, Volume 29, Issue 4, Pages 543-549
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Field & Applications:
- Medical
- Treatment evaluation
- Neurology
- Musculoskeletal rehabilitation
This study investigates the effects of scapulohumeral training combined with 1 Hz low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (LF-rTMS) on muscle activation, muscle tone, and upper limb function in patients with stroke.
Twenty stroke patients were divided into an experimental group that received LF-rTMS combined with scapulohumeral training and a control group that received sham-rTMS combined with scapulohumeral training. Intervention was provided five times a week for 50 min over six weeks. Muscle activation was assessed using electromyography, muscle tone was measured through MyotonPRO, and the upper-limb function was evaluated by manual function test (MFT).
Electromyography and MyotonPRO results show statistically significant differences in the upper trapezius and anterior deltoid (p<0.05) and in the difference in the upper trapezius and biceps brachii (p<0.05), respectively, between the two groups. No statistically significant differences were observed in the MFT assessment (p>0.05).
The 1 Hz LF-rTMS has a positive effect on upper limb muscle activation and muscle tone in patients with stroke. Through this, It is concluded that 1Hz low-frequency rTMS has a positive effect on improving upper limb muscle activation and muscle tone in stroke patients.
Keywords: 1 Hz low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, scapulohumeral-rhythm, stroke, upper limb muscle activation, muscle tone
This study analyzed the effects of scapulohumeral training combined with LF-rTMS on muscle activation, muscle tone, and upper limb function in patients with stroke. The results showed that LF-rTMS combined with scapulohumeral training had a positive effect on upper limb muscle activation and tone regulation; however, no significant difference was observed in upper limb function assessment. These findings suggest that combining LF-rTMS with scapulohumeral training may be an effective intervention for upper limb functional recovery in patients with stroke. However, a more comprehensive approach is required to improve upper limb function, emphasizing the importance of interventions that consider postural control.