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Updated: May 24, 2026
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The Impact of Motor Task Conditions on Goal-Directed Arm Reaching Kinematics and Trunk Compensation in Chronic Stroke Survivors
Published on: May 2, 2021
Grip type and task goal modify reach-to-grasp performance in post-stroke hemiparesis
Sydney Y Schaefer1, Stacey L DeJong, Kendra M Cherry
1Program in Physical Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Motor Control
|February 24, 2012
Summary
Stroke survivors with hemiparesis exhibit altered reach-to-grasp movements, with curved paths and slower speeds, irrespective of grip or task. These motor pattern changes may compensate for impairments after stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Post-stroke hemiparesis often leads to significant motor impairments affecting upper limb function.
- Understanding how individuals with stroke adapt their movements is crucial for effective rehabilitation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of grip type and task goal on reaching and grasping performance in individuals with post-stroke hemiparesis.
- To compare motor performance between stroke survivors and healthy adults during a reach-to-grasp task.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen adults with post-stroke hemiparesis and twelve healthy adults participated.
- Participants performed reaching and grasping of a cylindrical object using either a 3-finger or palmar grip.
- Task goals included either holding or lifting the object.
Main Results:
- The stroke group displayed characteristic hemiparetic limb movement patterns, including more curved handpaths and slower velocities compared to controls.
- These general movement alterations were consistent across different grip types and task goals.
- Specific measures of reaching and grasping, such as reach time, velocity at contact, finger aperture, and grip force, were differentially influenced by grip type and task goal.
Conclusions:
- Motor pattern changes in post-stroke hemiparesis occur regardless of specific grip or task demands, suggesting a generalized motor impairment.
- Differential effects on specific kinematic and kinetic parameters indicate compensatory mechanisms are employed to manage stroke-related motor deficits.
- This research provides evidence for adaptive motor strategies following stroke, informing targeted therapeutic interventions.
