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Bimanual training after stroke: are two hands better than one?
Dorian K Rose1, Carolee J Winstein
1Department of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation
|December 14, 2004
Summary
Bimanual training may improve upper extremity function after stroke. This review examines evidence for bimanual coordination rehabilitation, suggesting criteria for effective application in stroke recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurorehabilitation
- Motor Control
- Stroke Recovery
Background:
- Stroke frequently impairs upper extremity function, limiting daily activities.
- Current rehabilitation often focuses on the affected limb, neglecting bimanual tasks.
- Bimanual coordination is crucial for many functional activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the behavioral basis of bimanual coordination in healthy individuals and post-stroke.
- To evaluate clinical studies using bimanual training protocols for stroke rehabilitation.
- To assess the evidence supporting bimanual training for upper extremity functional recovery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of behavioral neuroscience and clinical rehabilitation studies.
- Analysis of studies employing bimanual training protocols post-stroke.
- Synthesis of findings on the efficacy of bimanual training for motor recovery.
Main Results:
- Bimanual coordination deficits are common after stroke hemiparesis.
- Evidence suggests bimanual training can enhance upper extremity functional recovery.
- Specific task features and patient characteristics influence training effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Bimanual training is a promising approach for post-stroke upper extremity rehabilitation.
- Careful consideration of task parameters and patient selection is recommended.
- Further research may optimize bimanual training protocols for stroke survivors.