Abstract: Objective To observe the effect of 1 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on upper limb motor function after stroke. Methods 40 patients with ischemic internal carotid artery (ICA) stroke were randomly divided into treatment group (n=20) and control group (n=20). Both groups received conventional rehabilitation and medication. The treatment group received rTMS while the control group received pseudo stimulation, 1 Hz at 100% resting motor threshold (RMT) over contralesional motor cortex (unaffected side). The treatment group was tested with motor evoked potentials (MEPs), and both groups were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and grip strength after treatment. Results The amplitude of MEPs of the unaffected cortex increased in the treatment group after treatment (P< 0.001). The treatment group improved in grip strength and the scores of FMA in the affected side compared with the control group after treatment (P<0.001). No serious side-effect was found. Conclusion rTMS was safe and feasible for patients with ischemic ICA stroke to improve the upper limb motor function.

Key words: stroke, transcranial magnetic stimulation, cortical excitability, upper limb, motor function