Abstract T P124: Effect of Neuromuscular Magnetic Stimulation on the Hemiplegic Upper Extremity in Subacute Stroke Patients

Abstract

Objects: To investigate effects of neuromuscular magnetic stimulation (NMMS) on the wrist and hand muscle comparing with neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) in subacute stroke patients. Subject and Method: 20 Patients with subacute hemiplegic stroke were randomized into 2 groups; NMMS group (N=10) and a NMES group (N=10). Stimulation delivered 10-minute session, twice a day, 5 days a week for 3 weeks in both group to the affected forearm in alternating extensor/flexor muscle. The stimulation parameters required to produce slow movement through the full range at maximum patient comfort: NMMS (10 Hz, 10 s stimulation, 20 s rest, 10 min treatment time and 2,000 total pulse) and NMES (a symmetrical biphasic waveform, 30 us pulse width, 40 Hz).The hand function (Box and blocks test, Jebson-Taylor hand function test), hand performance (Wrist and hand muscle strength, grip power) and spasticity were done at baseline, after 1 week, and at the end of the treatment period (after 3 weeks). Repeated measurement ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Results: There were statistically significant improvements in measures of wrist flexor and hand flexor/extensor strength over the treatment period (p<0.05), but not significantly different between the groups. Although box and block test improved at 3 weeks in both groups, this was not statistically significant. Other measured outcome were not significantly improved. Conclusions: The both NMMS and NMES improves wrist and hand muscle strength in subacute hemiplegic stroke patients, with no significant difference between the stimulation. Therefore magnetic stimulation of peripheral muscle could be useful as much as a electrical stimulation. However, long term period follow-up was needed.