Low-Frequency rTMS over Contralesional M1 Increases Ipsilesional Cortical Excitability and Motor Function with Decreased Interhemispheric Asymmetry in Subacute Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

LF-rTMS over the contralesional M1 preceding motor task practice was effective in enhancing the ipsilesional cortical excitability and upper limb function with reducing interhemispheric asymmetry in subacute stroke patients with mild to moderate arm paresis. <i>Significance.</i> Adding LF-rTMS prior to motor task practice may reduce interhemispheric asymmetry of cortical excitabilities and promote upper limb function recovery in subacute stroke with mild to moderate arm paresis.