Superior efficacy of 100-Hz transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in reducing post-stroke spasticity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Post-stroke spasticity is a prevalent complication of upper motor neuron injury, hindering motor recovery, independence, and quality of life. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has been proposed as a non-invasive strategy to modulate neural excitability and reduce spasticity. However, its clinical efficacy remains uncertain due to heterogeneity in stimulation protocols and patient characteristics. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the overall effectiveness of TENS in managing post-stroke spasticity and to examine potential differences in outcomes across stimulation frequencies and stroke phases.

Methods

Databases searched included PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, PEDro, and the Cochrane Library up to March 2025. The pr

SUBMITTER: Diao Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12512259 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature