AUTHOR=Wang Lei , Peng Jin-lin , Xiang Wu , Huang Yi-jie , Chen Ai-lian 

TITLE=Effects of rhythmic auditory stimulation on motor function and balance ability in stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical randomized controlled studies

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Neuroscience

VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2022

YEAR=2022

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2022.1043575

DOI=10.3389/fnins.2022.1043575

ISSN=1662-453X

ABSTRACT=Abstract:
Objective. This study aimed to summarize the effectiveness of rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) for the treatment of gait and motor function in stroke through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods. All studies were retrieved from six databases. The effects of RAS on stroke were determined using the following indicators: gait parameters including step length, step cadence, velocity; motor function including Fugl–Meyer assessment (FMA), overall balance index (OBI) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). The risk map of bias of the quality of the studies and the meta-analysis results of the indicators was prepared with RevMan 5.2 software. Results. Twenty-two studies were included in the systematic review, and 18 studies were included in the meta-analysis. In the meta-analysis, the results of gait parameters (namely, velocity, step length, and step cadence), were statistically significant (P<0.01). The results of FMA, OBI and BBS for motor function were also statistically significant (P<0.01). Conclusions. RAS could improve gait parameters, walking function, and balance function of individuals with stroke. The application of RAS in conventional rehabilitation approaches can enhance motor performance among individuals with stroke. Future studies should use a larger sample size and a more rigorous design to obtain strong conclusions about the advantages of RAS for the treatment of gait and motor function in stroke.