Effect of Different Cortical Targets of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Freezing of Gait in Parkinsonism: A Systematic Review

Background and purpose: Freezing of gait (FOG) is a disabling and episodic gait disturbance in patients with Parkinson's, with varying responses to noninvasive brain stimulation. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been explored as a therapeutic option; however, the optimal cortical target for reducing FOG remains unclear. This systematic review synthesizes and critically evaluates the available evidence regarding the effects of TMS applied to different cortical targets on FOG-related outcomes, with emphasis on the indirect nature of comparisons between targets.