| Objective: To investigate the clinical effect of low frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with electromyographic biofeedback therapy (EMGBFT) for upper extremity spasticity and motor function in stroke patients. Methods: Forty-five patients were randomly divided into 3 groups (A, B and C) with 15 in each. All patients in groups A, B and C received conventional rehabilitation, those in group B received EMGBFT, and those in group C received low frequency rTMS combined with EMGBFT additionally. Before and 4 and 8 weeks after treatment, all patients were evaluated by Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), surface electromyography (sEMG), Fugl-Meyer Assessment of upper limbs (UFMA), and modified Barthel Index (MBI).Results: There was significant difference in MAS, sEMG, UFMA and MBI before and after treatment for 4 weeks in all patients (P<0.05), and between group C and the other two groups after treatment for 4 weeks (P<0.05). There was significant difference in all measurements between the 8th week and 4th week in group A. Conclusions: Low-frequency rTMS combined with EMGBFT can effectively reduce upper limb spasticity and improve function in stroke patients. |
