The role of compensatory movements patterns in spontaneous recovery after stroke

[Purpose] Post-stroke motor recovery consists of both true recovery and compensatory movements. Although compensatory movements are learned more quickly early after stroke, the role of compensatory movement patterns in functional recovery is controversial. We investigated the role of compensatory movement patterns in the long-term functional motor recovery after stroke. [Subjects and Methods] Male Wistar rats were subjected to photothrombotic infarction to induce motor and sensorimotor cortex lesions. The rats were given task-specific training. Behavior tests and analyses of compensatory movement patterns (head lift, limb withdrawal impairment, phantom grasps, and pellet chasing) during the single-pellet reaching test were performed 2, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days post stroke. [Results] Successful retrieval during the single-pellet reaching test was significantly correlated with compensatory movement patterns in stroke groups. Motor cortex stroke showed significant correlation in limb withdrawal impairment and pellet chasing. But, sensorimotor cortex stroke was significant correlation in pellet chasing. [Conclusion] The data suggest that compensatory movements after stroke are correlated with spontaneous recovery. Since some compensatory movement patterns are detrimental to functional recovery, the correct timing of training and control of compensatory movement patterns might be important.