Multiple Sclerosis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Multiple Sclerosis, including details on diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, prognosis.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex ameliorates spasticity in multiple sclerosis.

Centonze D, Koch G, Versace V, Mori F, Rossi S, Brusa L, Grossi K, Torelli F, Prosperetti C, Cervellino A, Marfia GA, Stanzione P, Marciani MG, Boffa L, Bernardi G

Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università di Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy. centonze@uniroma2.it

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can modify spasticity. METHODS: We used high-frequency (5 Hz) and low-frequency (1 Hz) rTMS protocols in 19 remitting patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and lower limb spasticity. RESULTS: A single session of 1 Hz rTMS over the leg primary motor cortex increased H/M amplitude ratio of the soleus H reflex, a reliable neurophysiologic measure of stretch reflex. Five hertz rTMS decreased H/M amplitude ratio of the soleus H reflex and increased corticospinal excitability. Single sessions did not induce any effect on spasticity. A significant improvement of lower limb spasticity was observed when rTMS applications were repeated during a 2-week period. Clinical improvement was long-lasting (at least 7 days after the end of treatment) when the patients underwent 5 Hz rTMS treatment during a 2-week protocol. No effect was obtained after a 2-week sham stimulation. CONCLUSIONS: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation may improve spasticity in multiple sclerosis.

Published 28 March 2007 in Neurology, 68(13): 1045-50.
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