Effect of single-session dual-tDCS before physical therapy on lower-limb performance in sub-acute stroke patients: A randomized sham-controlled crossover study

Publication date: Available online 12 May 2018Source: Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation MedicineAuthor(s): Wanalee Klomjai, Benchaporn Aneksan, Anuchai Pheungphrarattanatrai, Thanwarat Chantanachai, Nattha Choowong, Soontaree Bunleukhet, Paradee Auvichayapat, Yongchai Nilanon, Vimonwan HiengkaewAbstractAnodal stimulation increases cortical excitably, whereas cathodal stimulation decreases cortical excitability. Dual transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS; anodal over the lesioned hemisphere, cathodal over the non-lesioned hemisphere) was found to enhance motor learning. The corresponding tDCS-induced changes were reported to reduce the inhibition exerted by the unaffected hemisphere on the affected hemisphere and restore the normal balance of the interhemispheric inhibition. Most studies were devoted to the possible modification of upper-limb motor function after tDCS; however, almost no study has demonstrated its effects on lower-limb function and gait, which are also commonly disordered in stroke patients with motor deficits. In this randomized sham-controlled crossover study, we included 19 patients with sub-acute stroke. Participants were randomly allocated to receive real or sham dual-tDCS followed by conventional physical therapy with an intervention interval of at least 1 week. Dual-tDCS was applied over the lower-limb M1 at 2-mA intensity for 20 min. Lower-limb performance was assessed by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and Five-Times-Sit-To-Stand (FTSTS) te...
Source: Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine - Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research