Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in performing eye-hand integration tasks: four preliminary studies with children showing low-functioning autism

Autism. 2014 Aug;18(6):638-50. doi: 10.1177/1362361313495717. Epub 2013 Oct 10.

Abstract

This report, based on four studies with children with low-functioning autism, aimed at evaluating the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation delivered on the left and right premotor cortices on eye-hand integration tasks; defining the long-lasting effects of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation; and investigating the real efficacy of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation by comparing three kinds of treatments (high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, a traditional eye-hand integration training, and both treatments combined). Results showed a significant increase in eye-hand performances only when high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation was delivered on the left premotor cortex; a persistent improvement up to 1 h after the end of the stimulation; better outcomes in the treatment combining high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and eye-hand integration training. Based on these preliminary findings, further evaluations on the usefulness of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in rehabilitation of children with autism are strongly recommended.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorders; premotor cortex; rehabilitation; transcranial magnetic stimulation.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Autistic Disorder / complications
  • Autistic Disorder / rehabilitation*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intellectual Disability / complications
  • Intellectual Disability / rehabilitation*
  • Male
  • Motor Cortex*
  • Motor Skills Disorders / complications
  • Motor Skills Disorders / rehabilitation
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Psychomotor Performance*
  • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation / methods*
  • Young Adult