Effects of ultra-low frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation on motor function and intelligence of children with spastic cerebral palsy: study protocol for a randomized parallel-cohort controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Ultra-low frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation is a novel transcranial magnetic stimulation method that was developed based on the biological resonance principle and has been used in combination with an encephalofluctuograph. It can be used to treat brain diseases by regulating the brain electrical activity of various neurotransmitters, thereby overcoming the shortcomings of conventional transcranial magnetic stimulation. Nevertheless, stimulation intensity, frequency, protocol, and curative effects should be considered. Ultra-low frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation has been widely used to treat insomnia and several studies have reported on the use of ultra-low frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of cerebral palsy. Methods/Methods: This is a randomized, parallel-cohort controlled trial. Patients with spastic cerebral palsy, aged 2-4 years, are included in this trial and assigned to two groups. In the control group, conventional rehabilitative treatment methods, including exercise therapy, Chinese traditional manipulation, and muscle fiber excitation are used. In the treatment group, in addition to routine rehabilitative treatment methods, ultra-low frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation is used. After 1 and 3 months of treatment, the outcomes are evaluated. The primary outcomes of the trial include Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) scores, Fine Motor Function Measure (FMFM) scores, and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) scores. Discussion: The trial will provide clinical scale data for the use of ultra-low frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation to improve motor function and intelligence in child patients with spastic cerebral palsy. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registration identifier: ChiCTR-TRC-14004706; registered on 26 May 2014. Ethical issues: This trial was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee, First Hospital, Jilin University, China (approval No. 100818-062). Signed written informed consent will be obtained from each subject.