The role of robotic gait training and tDCS in Friedrich ataxia rehabilitation: A case report.

Journal: Medicine
Published Date:

Abstract

RATIONALE: Friedrich ataxia (FA) is the most common inherited neurodegenerative cerebellar ataxic syndrome. In patients with FA, physiotherapy is highly recommended to improve motor function outcome. Cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been demonstrated to be effective in improving symptoms by modulating cerebellar excitability. Recently, robotic rehabilitation with Lokomat-Pro has been used to treat motor impairment in ataxic syndromes by "modulating" cortical plasticity and cerebello-motor connectivity.

Authors

  • Simona Portaro
    IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy.
  • Margherita Russo
  • Alessia Bramanti
    Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.
  • Antonio Leo
  • Luana Billeri
  • Alfredo Manuli
    IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy.
  • Gianluca La Rosa
  • Antonino Naro
  • Rocco Salvatore CalabrĂ²