Transcranial direct current stimulation for upper extremity motor dysfunction in poststroke patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis included 44 studies with 1555 participants evaluating tDCS for post-stroke upper extremity motor dysfunction. tDCS proved effective in improving upper extremity motor function and Barthel Index scores. Subgroup analysis revealed the highest efficacy in subacute stroke patients, with C3/C4 as the most effective stimulus target and current densities less than 0.057 mA/cm2 for 20-30 minutes as optimal parameters.
Why it matters
tDCS is a low-cost, non-invasive neuromodulation approach that can be easily integrated into existing rehabilitation programs. This comprehensive meta-analysis identifies optimal stimulation parameters and patient populations, providing evidence-based guidance for clinicians implementing tDCS in stroke rehabilitation settings.
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