Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on handgrip strength training in amateur badminton players

Objective. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with hand grip strengthening exercises in amateur badminton players. Materials and methods. This study was a participant-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Thirty amateur badminton players, aged 8–20 years with a minimum playing experience of 6 months, were included. Hand grip strength (HGS) was measured at baseline, Day 1, Day 4, Day 8, and Day 12. Results. The results of the present study showed no significant difference in hand grip strength between the groups. The overall interaction effect between the groups was found to be insignificant (p = 0.722). However, the overall interaction effect within the group was significant (p = 0.011*). Multiple comparisons revealed the greatest improvement in HGS at Day 12 compared to the baseline value. Conclusion. The application of anodal tDCS combined with HGS training was ineffective in improving hand grip strength in amateur badminton players.