Therapeutic Effects of Electrical Stimulation on Ankle Spasticity in Individuals with Stroke: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background and Purpose: We performed a meta-analysis and systematic review to investigate the therapeutic effects of electrical stimulation (ES) on ankle plantarflexors spasticity in individuals with stroke. Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane library, MEDINE, PEDro, Chinese Electronic Periodical Services and National Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations in Taiwan until December 2013 and identified studies that compared spasticity measurements after receiving ES with non-receiving ES. Outcome measures included modified Ashworth scale (MAS) and H/M ratio. Results: A total of 4 studies were identified for meta-analysis. Meta-analysis revealed improvement in ankle plantarflexor spasticity indicated by MAS (95% CI: -0.67~-0.06, p=0.02) and H/M ratio (95% CI: -0.2~-0.05, p=0.0006) after receiving ES. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that ES significantly decreased ankle plantarflexors spasticity in individuals with stroke.