Effect Of Repetitive Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation In Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder In Response To Attention And Motor Skills In SchoolGoing Children

Abstract

Background: According to the American Psychiatric Association (2013), ADHD is marked by persistent inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that affects functioning or development. In India, its prevalence ranges from 1.3% to 28.9%, with higher rates in males (12.58%) than females (5.52%). This study aims to determine the effect of Repetitive Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) and structured exercise on attention, motor skills, and physical fitness in school-going children with ADHD.

Methodology: This experimental study examined the effects of rTMS and exerciseon attention and motor skills of  school- going children with ADHD.

Result: Participants (mean age 8.6 years) showed improvement across all measures from Day 0 to Day 30, including motor coordination, endurance, and cognitive performance, as evidenced by better SLTHT, SMBTT, 9HPT, TMWT, and TMT scores. Additionally, the exercise sessions were acceptable and enjoyable to all children.

Conclusion: rTMS combined with structured exercise improves attention, motor function, and quality of life in children with ADHD. It is recommended that structured exercise programs be integrated into the school physical education curriculum, as they can serve as an effective and essential intervention to enhance attention, motor skills, and overall functioning in children with ADHD.