Enhanced swallowing function and quality of life in post-stroke dysphagia: superior efficacy of tongue-nape acupuncture combined with tDCS.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the combined effects of Tongue-Nape Acupuncture (TNA) and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on 85 post-stroke dysphagia (PSD) patients. METHODS: Participants were assigned to either a tDCS-only group (n = 40) or a TNA + tDCS group (n = 45). Swallowing function (Water Swallowing Test, Standard Swallowing Assessment) and Quality of Life (QoL) were assessed. Serum levels of neural injury markers (S-100β, NSE, MMP-9, Hcy, hs-CRP) were measured, alongside brain activity (near-infrared imaging) and muscle function (EMG). RESULTS: The TNA + tDCS group achieved significantly greater improvements in swallowing scores and a higher overall clinical response rate (91.1% vs. 77.5%) compared to the tDCS-only group (p < 0.05). The combination therapy led to significant reductions in neural injury biomarkers and increased oxyhemoglobin concentrations in sensorimotor and prefrontal areas, indicating positive neurobiological changes and enhanced brain activity. EMG results also showed improved muscle function and coordination in the combined group. No significant difference in adverse reactions was observed between groups. In addition, serum biomarker assay results demonstrated that, post-intervention, the combination group exhibited significantly decreased levels of S-100β, NSE, MMP-9, homocysteine, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, indicating benign neurobiological alterations. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that combining TNA and tDCS is a promising strategy for improving swallowing and feeding functions, enhancing QoL, and offering potential neuroprotective benefits for patients with PSD.