Shoulder strapping for stroke-related upper limb dysfunction and shoulder impairments: systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Stroke frequently causes shoulder impairments, limiting upper limb function.
• Shoulder strapping is a potential adjunct therapy requiring further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of shoulder strapping in reducing stroke-related upper limb and shoulder impairments.
• To assess any adverse effects associated with shoulder strapping.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of eight studies involving 340 stroke participants.
• Searched multiple databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, PEDro) with independent data extraction.
• Interpreted findings considering risk of bias.

Main Results:

• Studies focused on shoulder paralysis within four weeks post-stroke, examining function, subluxation, and pain.
• Diverse interventions and outcomes, with some studies showing high risk of bias.
• Inconclusive findings overall, but a potential benefit in delaying shoulder pain onset was noted.

Conclusions:

• Insufficient evidence exists regarding the efficacy or inefficacy of shoulder strapping for shoulder paralysis.
• Shoulder strapping demonstrated minimal adverse effects.
• Rigorous testing is recommended for shoulder strapping in cases of shoulder paresis and paralysis post-stroke.