The effects of supplementing theta burst stimulation of the cerebellum with physical therapy on balance and gait recovery after a stroke: A randomized clinical trial
10.3760/cma.j.issn.0254-1424.2023.05.004
- VernacularTitle:小脑间歇性θ短阵脉冲刺激联合物理治疗对脑卒中患者平衡功能和步态的影响
- Author:
Jing CHEN
1
;
Mingfang SHI
;
Jun CHEN
;
Jian ZHANG
;
Rong CHEN
;
Jinkang TU
;
Xiaoqiong WU
Author Information
1. 复旦大学附属中山医院康复医学科，上海 200032
- Keywords:
Theta burst stimulation;
Cerebellum;
Stroke;
Balance;
Gait
- From:
Chinese Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
2023;45(5):402-407
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Objective:To explore any effect of combining intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) of the cerebellum with physiotherapy on the balance function and gait of stroke survivors.Methods:Thirty-two hemiplegic stroke survivors were divided at random into a treatment group and a control group, each of 16. Both groups received conventional physical therapy. Before their physiotherapy sessions the treatment group received iTBS treatment of the cerebellar hemisphere contralateral to the affected cerebral hemisphere, while the control group was given pseudo-stimulation on the same site. The iTBS was given once a day for 200s each time, 6 times a week for 3 weeks consecutively. Before and after the treatment, as well as 3 weeks later, both groups′ balance was evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Their ability to shift their center of gravity, total length of their shaking trajectory, and maximum shaking diameter were also quantified. Walking ability was assessed using 10m walk test (10MWT) times and the Tinetti Gait Assessment Scale (POMA-G). Lower limb motor function was quantified using the relevant Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA-LE) and the subjects′ ability in the activities of daily living was measured with the Barthel index (BI).Results:After the 3 weeks of treatment and at the follow-up the average BBS score of the treatment group had improved significantly more than the control group′s average, as had its total track length and maximum shake diameter. The average POMA-G, FMA-LE and BI scores of the treatment group were also significantly better.Conclusions:Combining iTBS with physiotherapy can improve the balance and gait of stroke survivors more effectively than physiotherapy alone.
