The effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on upper-limb function post-stroke: A meta-analysis of multiple-session studies

ObjectiveTo systematically review how patient characteristics and/or transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) parameters influence tDCS effectiveness in respect to upper limb function post-stroke.MethodsThree electronic databases were searched for sham-controlled randomised trials using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for upper extremity as outcome measure. A meta-analysis and nine subgroup-analyses were performed to identify which tDCS parameters yielded the greatest impact on upper limb function recovery in stroke patients.ResultsEighteen high-quality studies (507 patients) were included. tDCS applied in a chronic stage yields greater results than tDCS applied in a (sub)acute stage. Additionally, patients with low baseline upper limb impairments seem to benefit more from tDCS than those with high baseline impairments. Regarding tDCS configuration, all stimulation types led to a significant improvement, but only tDCS applied during therapy, and not before therapy, yielded significant results. A positive dose–response relationship was identified for current/charge density and stimulation duration, but not for number of sessions.ConclusionOur results demonstrate that tDCS improves upper limb function post-stroke. However, its effectiveness depends on numerous factors. Especially chronic stroke patients improved, which is promising as they are typically least amenable to recovery.SignificanceThe current work highlights the importance of several patient-related and protocol-related factors regarding tDCS effectiveness.