1Hz rTMS over M1 of the unaffected hemisphere enhances the effectiveness of a 3-week motor training to improve function of the affected hand after stroke

Introduction: Stroke is the leading cause for disability in Europe and the United States. Recovery of motor deficits following stroke is incomplete in the majority of affected subjects despite intensive rehabilitation. Six months following stroke up to 60% of stroke survivors still suffer from impaired manual dexterity which impacts on activities of daily living. Given these epidemiological facts there is a socio-economical need to develop and implement innovative, neurobiologically founded strategies in stroke rehabilitation. The aim of the randomized controlled trial was to investigate if 1Hz rTMS over M1 of the unaffected hemisphere enhances the effectiveness of a daily motor training to improve sensorimotor function of the affected hand after middle cerebral artery stroke.