Research Article: Functional Repetitive Neuromuscular Magnetic Stimulation (frNMS) Targeting the Tibialis Anterior Muscle in Children with Upper Motor Neuron Syndrome: A Feasibility Study
Abstract:
Non-invasive neurostimulation as an adjunctive intervention to task-specific motor training is an approach to foster motor performance in patients affected by upper motor neuron syndrome (UMNS). Here, we present first-line data of repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation (rNMS) in combination with personalized task-specific physical exercises targeting the tibialis anterior muscle to improve ankle dorsiflexion (functional rNMS (frNMS)). The main objective of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility in terms of adherence to frNMS, safety and practicability of frNMS, and satisfaction with frNMS. First, during 10 training sessions, only physical exercises were performed (study period (SP) A). After a 1 week break, frNMS was delivered during 10 sessions (SPC). Twelve children affected by UMNS (mean age 8.9 ± 1.6 years) adhered to 93% (SPA) and 94% (SPC) of the sessions, and omittance was not related to the intervention itself in any case. frNMS was safe (no AEs reported in 88% of sessions, no AE-related discontinuation). The practicability of and satisfaction with frNMS were high. Patient/caregiver-reported outcomes revealed meaningful benefits on the individual level. The strength of the ankle dorsiflexors (MRC score) clinically meaningfully increased in four participants as spasticity of ankle plantar flexors (Tardieu scores) decreased in four participants after SPC. frNMS was experienced as a feasible intervention for children affected by UMNS. Together with the beneficial effects achieved on the individual level in some participants, this first study supports further real-world, large-scale, sham-controlled investigations to investigate the specific effects and distinct mechanisms of action of frNMS.
Introduction:
Congenital or acquired brain injury is the main cause of physical disability in childhood [1,2,3,4,5]. The common pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the motor dysfunction are summarized within the concept of the upper motor neuron syndrome (UMNS). The individual picture of motor impairment depends on the etiology and location as well as the size of the lesion(s), as well on the time point of injury during the lifespan (e.g., pre-, peri-, or postnatal). Specifically, the clinical picture is (1) classified as…
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