Abstract
ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS)—repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)—on hemispatial neglect and performance in activities of daily living (ADL) after stroke. Data SourcesMEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, SciELO, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database were searched from database inception to December 2016. Data SelectionRandomized controlled trials or crossover trials focused on determining the effects of tDCS or rTMS combined or not combined with other therapies for hemispatial neglect after stroke. Data ExtractionMethodological characteristics of the studies, number of participants, comparison groups, interventions, and outcomes were extracted. Data SynthesisTen trials comprising 226 participants had data that were suitable for the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed that NIBS combined with other therapies significantly improves hemispatial neglect (standardized mean difference [SMD]=–1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], –2.57 to –1.25; I2=71%). A sensitivity analysis showed that rTMS (SMD=–2.16; 95% CI, –3.00 to –1.33; I2=76%) and tDCS (SMD=–1.07; 95% CI, –1.76 to –0.37; I2=0%) had positive effects on hemispatial neglect. Furthermore, both excitatory (SMD=–2.34; 95% CI, –3.56 to –1.12; I2=65%) and inhibitory (SMD=–1.69; 95% CI, –2.49 to –0.88; I2=75%) stimulations were effective. ConclusionsThis meta-analysis reveals moderate-quality evidence for the effectiveness of NIBS protocols combined with other therapies on hemispatial neglect and performance in ADL after stroke.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
