The application of low frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in rehabilitation of Parkinson's disease patients

Objective To explore the application value of low frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and electrophysiological research. Methods Fifty-six PD patients treated in the Department of Neurology of our hospital from September 2010 to September 2012 were randomly divided into 2 groups, group A (N = 28) and group B (N = 28). Patients in group A were given conventional drug treatment and rehabilitation training, while patients in group B were given low frequency rTMS on the basis of conventional drug treatment and rehabilitation training. After 3 weeks, the scores of Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), resting threshold (RT), cortical latent period, nerve root latent period, central motor conduction time (CMCT) and the incidence of adverse reactions were compared between 2 groups. Results After intervention, the emotion, ability of daily living and motor function of patients in group B was obviously improved, and the scores of UPDRS in group B were significantly lower than that in group A (P < 0.05, for all). The RT, cortical latent period and CMCT in group B were longer than that in group A (P < 0.05, for all). The incidence of adverse reactions of 2 groups was not obviously different (P > 0.05). Conclusion The effect of low frequency rTMS in the treatment for PD is evident, safe and reliable, and with less adverse reaction. It can be used as a noninvasive physical treatment measure for PD.