The Influence of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Functional Recovery After Stroke: A Systematic Review

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the world and second in Brazil, whose main characteristics are global or focal disorders of brain functions, involving cognitive and mainly physical limitations, including motor, sensory changes, ataxias, apraxias and aphasias. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (ETCC) is a non-pharmacological treatment that has demonstrated relevant benefits in the rehabilitation of patients. OBJECTIVE: to verify the effects of ETCC on the functional capacity of post-stroke patients, focusing on efficacy and results in the face of individuals' motor disorders. METHOD: The searches were performed in the databases PeDRO, Cochrane, PubMed and MEDLINE. Eligible studies included at least one of the population outcomes ≥ 18 years, resulting from the intervention, therapeutic efficacy and Motor activity. RESULTS:Seven were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, published between 2015 and 2020. CONCLUSION: ETCC, applied in isolation, can be an effective technique to improve motor deficits after stroke, including injured upper limb function, lower limb strength, unilateral neglect, mobility and Daily Living Activities. It is suggested to carry out further studies for the standardization of a treatment protocol, as well as to verify the best moment of its application in the post-stroke patient.