Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Upper Extremity Motor Recovery: Does It Help?

This article provides an overview of basic mechanisms of rTMS, consideration of its interaction with various forms of neuroplasticity, and a summary of the highest quality clinical evidence for rTMS given early after stroke.Recent FindingsStudies of repetitive magnetic stimulation in vitro and in vivo have found modulation of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission and induction of cellular mechanisms supporting plasticity. A handful of clinical studies have shown sustained improvements in grip strength and UE motor impairment when rTMS is delivered in the first weeks after stroke.SummaryThough in its infancy, recent research suggests a plasticity-enhancing influence and modest motor recovery potentiation when rTMS is delivered early after stroke.

Source: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports - October 23, 2018 Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research