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Published on: October 11, 2024
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Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for upper limb spasticity after stroke: effect and feasibility-a
Yuting Wang1,2, Lili Zhang1,2, Rui Yin1,2
1First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, Tianjin, China.
BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care
|January 11, 2025
Summary
Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) improved motor function and was feasible for stroke survivors with upper limb spasticity. Further research is warranted to confirm these promising findings.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Upper limb spasticity is a common and debilitating condition following stroke.
- Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) is a potential therapeutic option, but its efficacy and feasibility require further investigation.
- Current management strategies for post-stroke upper limb spasticity often have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of TEAS on motor function in stroke patients with upper limb spasticity.
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of TEAS as a treatment modality.
- To determine the impact of TEAS on spasticity, motor control, and functional independence.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled, double-blind pilot study involving two groups: TEAS and sham TEAS.
- Intervention period of 6 weeks, with 30-minute sessions conducted thrice weekly.
- Outcome measures included Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), Barthel Index (BI), and surface electromyography (sEMG).
Main Results:
- TEAS group demonstrated significant improvements in FMA-UE, WMFT, and BI scores compared to the sham group at 6 weeks.
- Significant reductions in integrated electromyogram and root mean square of the biceps were observed in the TEAS group.
- All participants completed the therapy, indicating good feasibility and acceptability.
Conclusions:
- TEAS is a feasible and acceptable intervention for managing upper limb spasticity in stroke survivors.
- The positive effects on motor function suggest TEAS holds therapeutic potential.
- A larger pivotal study is justified to confirm the efficacy of TEAS for post-stroke upper limb spasticity.
Keywords:
Stroke
