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What is the functional outcome for the upper limb after stroke?
B K Williams1, M P Galea, A T Winter
1Physiotherapy Department, The Alfred, Prahran, VIC, 3121, Australia. physiotherapy@alfred.org.au
The Australian Journal of Physiotherapy
|September 13, 2001
Summary
This study evaluated upper limb recovery after stroke using the Motor Assessment Scale (MAS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Results show significant functional improvements, highlighting the MAS
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Clinical Outcomes
Background:
- The Motor Assessment Scale (MAS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) are widely used in Australian rehabilitation.
- Systematic studies on stroke recovery, particularly upper limb function, using these scales are limited.
- Understanding upper limb recovery is crucial for effective stroke rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To profile upper limb recovery in a non-surgical stroke population.
- To assess recovery using measures of both impairment and disability.
- To compare the utility of MAS and FIM in measuring upper limb function post-stroke.
Main Methods:
- Audit of 153 stroke patient records.
- Collection of upper limb MAS sub-scores.
- Collection of FIM sub-scores for upper body dressing and total FIM scores at admission and discharge.
Main Results:
- All outcome measures showed significant improvement post-rehabilitation.
- No correlation was found between MAS scores and the functional task of upper body dressing.
- The MAS provided a more accurate profile of upper limb recovery than the FIM.
Conclusions:
- Stroke survivors frequently experience substantial upper limb functional improvements.
- Outcome measures assessing both impairment and disability are essential for stroke recovery evaluation.
- The MAS is a valuable tool for measuring upper limb recovery after stroke, despite limitations.