Dual-tDCS combined with sensorimotor training promotes upper limb function in subacute stroke patients: A randomized,...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Stroke Recovery
• Brain Stimulation

Background:

• Dual transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the bilateral primary somatosensory cortex (PSC) shows promise for stroke patients.
• Sensorimotor training improves sensorimotor function more than traditional rehabilitation.
• The combined efficacy of dual-tDCS and sensorimotor training in subacute stroke is not yet established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if dual-tDCS enhances sensorimotor training for upper limb function in subacute stroke.
• To investigate the potential clinical mechanisms underlying this combined therapy.

Main Methods:

• 52 subacute stroke patients were randomized into experimental (dual-tDCS + sensorimotor training) and control (sham dual-tDCS + sensorimotor training) groups.
• Treatment involved daily 1-hour sessions for 4 weeks.
• Assessments included upper limb function (FMA-UE, ARAT, BBT), sensory function (Em-NSA, CPT), ADL (BI), mental health (HADS), and brain activity (fNIRS).

Main Results:

• Both groups improved significantly post-treatment.
• The experimental group showed significantly greater improvements in FMA-UE, ARAT, Em-NSA-Stereognosis, and CPT compared to the control group.
• Dual-tDCS activated the left pre-Motor and supplementary motor cortex (PM-SMC) and enhanced connectivity between the left somatosensory association cortex (SAC) and PM-SMC.

Conclusions:

• Dual-tDCS combined with sensorimotor training improves upper limb function, ADL, and mental health in subacute stroke patients.
• The enhanced functional connectivity between the right PM-SMC and left SAC may be a key therapeutic target for dual-tDCS in stroke rehabilitation.