Efficacy of Trans-spinal Magnetic Stimulation on Functional Mobility in Chronic Stroke Patients

The Timed-Up and Go (TUG) test is used to evaluate an individual´s capacity to stand up, walk, and sit down. During the test, the participants are timed from the moment they begin to stand up until they are seated again.

Self-reported independence is assessed using the Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC). Scores range from 0 (inability to walk even with external help) to 5 (normal ambulation).

Motor function of the lower limbs is assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, where scores range from 0 (indicating the worst motor function) to 28 (indicating normal motor function).

Capacity to maintain balance during various tasks is assessed using the Mini Balance Evaluation System (MiniBEST-test). Its scores range from 0 to 28 points. Lower scores indicate poor balance, while higher scores reflect better balance.

Evaluation of how the participant describes the perceived change in their condition since the treatment started, using the Patient Global Impression of Change (PGM). This scale assesses the change in activity limitations, symptoms, emotions, and overall quality of life since the beginning of treatment, ranging from no change or worsening to significant improvement that made a considerable difference. A score of one indicates no change, while a score of seven represents a substantial improvement.

Tonus disorders will be assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale, which measures spasticity by grading muscle resistance during passive stretching. The scale ranges from 0 to 4, where 0 indicates no increase in muscle tone, and 4 represents a limb that is rigid in flexion or extension.

Assessed using a method inspired by the ASIA scale, evaluating the lower thoracic, mid-thoracic, and lower cervical dermatomes, where a score of 0 indicates absence of sensitivity and 2 indicates normal sensitivity.