Abstract
Abstract
Background:
As the population ages, more individuals present with stroke-related impairments and disabilities. One area of research interest is a family of proteins called neurotrophins, which induce the survival, development, and function of neurons. Two current treatment modalities that utilize the release of neurotrophic factors are transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and electroacupuncture (EA).
Cases:
Two individuals (patients A and B) with chronic poststroke symptoms were treated simultaneously with tDCS and EA. The patients received tDCS, anodal stimulation at C4-Fp1, according to the EEG 10/20 system, and EA, points at specific locations along the neglected limb simultaneously for 20 minutes. Each patient was then given a postacupuncture massage of the neglected limb and an exercise program. Treatments consisted of four weekly treatments for 5 weeks, for a total of twenty visits. Outcome measurements were range of motion, Jammar grip strength, and video golf swing.
Results:
Patient A had a 21° increase in shoulder flexion; a 14° increase in shoulder abduction; and improvements in shoulder external rotation, wrist extension, and ulnar deviation. Patient B had a 38° increase in shoulder flexion, an 8° increase in shoulder external rotation; a 14° increase in wrist flexion; and significant improvements in wrist extension, ulnar deviation, and shoulder internal rotation.
Conclusions:
Acupuncture and tDCS used simultaneously may attenuate neurotrophic release and potentially provide an internal environment that is receptive to neural growth and/or repair.
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