Effects of Occupational Therapy Combined with tDCS on Cognitive Functions in male Patients with schizophrenia, A randomized control trial

Background and Aim : : Schizophrenia is associated with impairment in cognitive functions, including visual memory. Considering the role of brain stimulation on synaptic plasticity, memory and learning, the effects of TCDC on memory and learning in schizophrenic patients were investigated.Methods : This study was implemented as an experimental (interventional), case-control, double-blind and randomized trial design. A total of 24 subjects (male) diagnosed as schizophrenia, age 45.5 ±6.5 years, were recruited and randomized in the experimental and sham groups. Their Spatial recognition, visual memory, and learning abilities were assessed using SRM and PAL subtests of The Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) before and after the intervention. Visuomotor Organization, Thinking Operations and attention were also assessed by The Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment battery (LOTCA). All subjects received customized occupational therapy activities. subjects were randomized into two groups (Intervention and Sham-Control). the experimental group received anodal tCDC, 6 sessions every other day, 20 minutes each session with 2 mA at DLPFC twice a day.Results : Adding tDCS to conventional occupational Therapy resulted in a significant increase in spatial recognition and visual memory score (P = 0.004), learning abilities (p = 0.01), and attention (p = 0.01).Conclusion : Anodal tDCS on DLPFC improved spatial and visual memory functions, attention and learning abilities. Transcranial excitation can be considered as a therapeutic candidate combined with Occupational Therapy in schizophrenic patients.

Keywords:

Cognitive Functions , Schizophrenia , tDCS , Psychosocial Rehabilitation , Occupational Therapy