Effectiveness of dual-tDCS in combinaision with upper limb robotic-assisted rehabilitation: a double-blind randomised crossover study
(2017) International Neurorehabilitation Symposium — Location: London (17.July.2017)
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- Abstract
- Background: The interest of transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS) is actually controversial in the neurorehabilitation literature. It’s suggested to combine tDCS with other approach to improve its efficacy. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of upper limb robotic-assisted therapy (RAT) combined with real or sham-tDCS among chronic stroke patients. Methods: 21 hemiparetic stroke patients were included in a cross-over double-blind randomized controlled protocol. Each patient performed two sessions seven days apart in a randomized order: (1) 20 minutes of real dual-tDCS associated with RAT (REAL+RAT) and (2) 20 minutes of sham dual-tDCS associated with RAT (SHAM+RAT). Patients’ dexterity (Box & Block tests and Purdue Pegboard tests) and upper limb kinematics were evaluated before and after the interventions. The assistance provided by the robot during the intervention was also recorded. Results: After REAL+RAT intervention, patients improved their movement straightness of 2% (p<0.05) and their gross manual dexterity (2 blocks, p=0.008). Conversely, no parameter changed after SHAM+RAT. Concerning the comparison between REAL+RAT and SHAM+RAT, results were equivalent for kinematics, Box & Block and Purdue Pegboard (p>0.05). The assistance provided by the robot during the rehabilitation was also similar in both conditions (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrated a slightly improvement of hand dexterity and arm movement after REAL+RAT tDCS intervention. The observed effect is small after one session and is not clinically relevant, but repetitive sessions could increase the effect.
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Dehem, S., Gilliaux, M., Lejeune, T., Delaunois, E., Mbonda Chimi, P., Vandermeeren, Y., Detrembleur, C., & Stoquart, G. (2017). Effectiveness of dual-tDCS in combinaision with upper limb robotic-assisted rehabilitation: a double-blind randomised crossover study. International Neurorehabilitation Symposium, London. https://hdl.handle.net/2078.5/227547