Abstract:

Objective To observe the therapeutic effects of improved Vitalstim electroacupuncture on patients with dysphagia after stroke. Methods One hundred and eight patients with dysphagia after stroke were randomly divided into the electroacupuncture group (n=36), Vitalstim group (n=36), and combined group (n=36). Based on the routine rehabilitation therapy, patients of the electroacupuncture group underwent electroacupuncture therapy; patients of the Vitalstim group underwent Vitalstim therapy; and patients of the combined group underwent improved Vitalstim electroacupuncture therapy. The swallowing function and rehabilitation of patients were assessed by the water swallowing test and standard swallowing assessment (SSA). The myoelectric activity of submental muscles was detected by the surface electromyography (sEMG). Results The swallowing function of three groups improved in different degrees. The differences of overall efficiency were not statistically significant (P>0.05), but the cure rate of the combined group was higher than those of the two other groups (P<0.05). The SSA scores of the Vitalstim group and combined group were lower than those of the electroacupuncture group (P<0.05). The results of sEMG showed that the improvement of contraction ability of submental muscles of the combined group was better than that of the two other groups (P<0.05). Conclusion Rehabilitation training combined with electroacupuncture therapy, Vitalstim therapy, or improved Vitalstim electroacupuncture therapy can efficiently improve the swallowing function of patients with stroke. The rehabilitation effect of improved Vitalstim acupuncture therapy is better.

Key words: Vitalstim, stroke, dysphagia, electroacupuncture