Focal Muscle Vibration: An Emerging Modality In Stroke Rehabilitation

Abstract

Respected Editor, Stroke is one of the highest contributors to mortality in South East Asia. Its prevalence in Pakistan is assessed to be 250/100,000 population with 350,000 new cases per annum [1]. Stroke is a leading cause of disability where 20-40% of stroke survivors are affected by spasticity, a complication of upper motor neurons [2]. Spastic paralysis secondary to stroke leads to functional limitations due to ataxia, gait disturbances, joint contracture, and pain that deteriorates the quality of life. Post-stroke spasticity management requires a mix of pharmacological and certain rehabilitative treatments, of which the prevalent ones in Pakistan are virtual reality, early mobilization, movement therapy induced by force and gait training and non-invasive brain stimulation. For the treatment of spasticity, focal muscle vibration (FMV) is more affordable, user-friendly, with no known adverse effects [3]. Despite its promising results, focal muscle vibration has not yet been introduced in Pakistan probably due to lack of literature.