Evaluating the effectiveness and safety of noninvasive cerebellar stimulation in improving the balance and walking function of patients with stroke.

This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of noninvasive cerebellar stimulation (NICS) in improving the balance and walking function of patients with stroke. The data showed that NICS improved the balance and walking function in these patients.

A stroke is caused by a reduction in blood flow to the brain. This can lead to the death of brain cells that stopped receiving oxygen. The abilities controlled by these cells can be lost, leaving patients with symptoms such as arm or leg paralysis, and problems with speech, movement, or balance. 83% of stroke survivors have impaired balance and postural control (muscle control to maintain an upright posture). This can limit the walking ability and increase the risk of falling.

The part of the brain co-responsible for movement and balance is the cerebellum. It is located in the back of the brain. It works like the rest of the brain by transmitting electric impulses. After a stroke, this transmission is affected. NICS involves stimulating this area with magnetic impulses in intervals to rebuild the function of the cerebellum. However, the effectiveness and safety of NICS in improving the balance and walking function of patients with stroke are still unclear.

This study analyzed 7 other studies and involved 212 patients with stroke. 112 patients were treated with NICS. 100 patients received a control (false) stimulation. Patients' balance, walking, and activities of daily living were evaluated.

Overall, NICS improved the balance and walking function of patients compared to control stimulation after stroke. However, there was no effect of NICS on overall daily activities. 

No side effects to NICS were observed.

This study concluded that noninvasive cerebellar stimulation improved the balance and walking function of patients with stroke.

The sample size was very small in the studies analyzed. The stimulus methods used were different for the included studies. More studies are needed to confirm the conclusions.