Effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation-assisted training on lower limb motor function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy

Abstract

Abstract Objective To explore the effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)-assisted training on lower limb motor function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (HCP). Method Thirty-one children with HCP who met the inclusion criteria were selected and randomly divided into a control group (n = 16) and an experimental group (n = 15). The control group received routine rehabilitation treatment for 30 min each time, twice a day, 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Based on the control group, the experimental group received rTMS for 20 min each time, once a day, 5 days a week for 4 weeks. The outcome measures included a 10-metre walk test (10MWT), a 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) test, D- and E-zone gross motor function measurements (GMFM), the symmetry ratio of the step length and stance time and the muscle tone of the triceps surae and the hamstrings (evaluated according to the modified Ashworth scale), which were obtained in both groups of children before and after treatment. Results After training, the 10MWT (P 0.05). After treatment, the muscle tone of the triceps surae in the experimental group was significantly reduced (P 0.05). Conclusion Repetitive TMS-assisted training can improve lower limb motor function in children with HCP.

Keywords

• Hemiplegic cerebral palsy
• Lower limb
• Motor function
• Rehabilitation
• Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation