tDCS and motor training in individuals with central nervous system disease: A systematic review

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising tool for patients with neurological disorders, as it increases cortical excitability, motor learning and functionality. The studies up to date have focused on the tDCS parameters while the effects of the motor training have not yet been fully addressed. The purpose of this study is to present a systematic review of all studies related to tDCS in conjunction with motor training (MT) to improve gait performance, functionality, mobility and balance in individuals with non-progressive central nervous system diseases.

Seven databases were searched for articles from inception to October 2018. The search strategy followed Collaboration guidelines. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) Scale and Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias were applied to evaluate methodological quality.

Four hundred and sixteen recorded were screened. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies were randomized controlled trials, two of them had a crossover design and other two were pilot studies. Three paper analyzed children and adolescents with cerebral palsy, seven papers analyzed adults and elderly post stroke. tDCS with MT lead to significant results.

This review found limited evidence for the use of tDCS with MT for in children with CP and adults post stroke, due to the small number of studies as well as their methodological heterogeneity. In the absence of more robust evidence, further studies with a consistent methodological design are needed to endorse the clinical application of tDCS with motor training.