The effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation tDCS in arm-hand function after stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This paper belongs to the field of neurological rehabilitation and contains a systematic review and meta-analysis for investigating the clinically relevant parameters of transcranial direct current stimulation tDCS in stroke patients. tDCS is a non-invasive way of brain stimulation, which allows the activity of over- or under-active parts of the brain to return to normal. Electrodes are placed over the scalp and an electric current penetrates the brain. The 10-20-EEG electrode system is a standard system that, in combination with cortical representations via the homunculus, determines the location for the electrodes. This way, one can selectively stimulate the affected brain regions. This review focusses on the use of tDCS in upper limb stroke rehabilitation. This paper came to be in function of master's thesis for obtaining a master's degree in Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy at Hasselt University. The research question arose in consultation with a promoter and co-promoter. A central format was chosen. Both students worked together on one literature study to analyze the statistical data of the included studies to create a meta-analysis. The work was evenly distributed. The research protocol was drawn up independently based on the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.