Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with peripheral magnetic stimulation on movement symptom and exploration of the optimal population in Parkinson's disease: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

This study explores the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and rTMS combined with repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) (hereinafter referred to as rTMS + rPMS) on motor symptoms and quality of life in Parkinson's disease (PD), and explores whether there are differences between the two treatment methods; At the same time, analyze data from different subgroups to explore the influencing factors, in order to find the most suitable treatment group.

METHODS

Eighty patients with PD were randomly divided into rTMS and rTMS + rPMS groups and administered 10 Hz rTMS, and 10 Hz rTMS + 25 Hz rPMS, respectively, for 10 days. Before and after treatment, the PD Motor Function Rating Scale (UPDRS Part III, 10m Walk Timing Test, Stand Up Walk Test Evaluation Scale (TUG)) and PD Quality of Life Questionnaire (PDQ-39) were used to evaluate the motor symptoms and quality of life. After quantifying the treatment effect, a comparative analysis of the efficacy before and after treatment was conducted. Simultaneously, we divided the two treatment groups into different subgroups, compared the subgroups under the same treatment method, analyzed the relevant factors affecting the treatment method, and found the most suitable treatment group.

RESULTS

(1) After rTMS or rTMS + rPMS, all scoring scales improved compared to those before treatment (P < .05). Compared to rTMS, rTMS + rPMS resulted in greater improvements in overall motor function (UPDRS III) and quality of life (PDQ-39) (P < .05). (2) Patients with rigidity-based type as the main type may be the most suitable for these two treatment methods (P < .05).(3) There was no significant difference in treatment efficiency between the two treatment methods for patients with PD at different disease stages, sexes, or treatment ages(P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Both rTMS and rTMS + rPMS can improve movement symptoms and quality of life in patients with PD. rTMS + rPMS was more beneficial for improving the overall motor function. Patients with rigidity-based type as the main type may be the most suitable for these two treatment methods. The therapies work in all age groups, all gender and irrespective of the disease stage with varying levodopa equivalent daily doses as well.