Frontiers in Neurology, 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1141973 · Published: July 13, 2023
This study investigates the effectiveness of different types of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on neuropathic pain in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). TMS is a non-invasive technique that stimulates the brain using magnetic pulses to relieve pain. The study compares intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), 10 Hz repetitive TMS (rTMS), and a combination of both (iTBS + rTMS). The researchers measured pain levels, depression, and sleep quality before, during, and after the treatment. The results suggest that all three stimulation methods can help reduce pain, depression, and improve sleep quality in individuals with SCI. However, iTBS used as a priming stimulus was more effective than iTBS alone in relieving neuropathic pain.
Clinicians may consider using iTBS as a priming stimulus for rTMS to enhance pain relief in patients with neuropathic pain after SCI.
The study suggests that iTBS sessions can be completed in less time than 10 Hz rTMS, potentially reducing the burden on patients without compromising treatment effectiveness.
Recognizing the unique needs of each patient, clinicians should consider iTBS as a preferred modality for certain types of patients or conditions based on the study's insights.