Best practice for arm recovery post stroke: an international application

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Digital Health
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Upper extremity impairment is a common challenge following stroke.
• Existing rehabilitation tools may lack global accessibility or evidence-based rigor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an evidence-based mobile application for post-stroke upper extremity rehabilitation.
• To create a globally accessible and user-friendly tool for therapists.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team of 23 experts and 10 consultants evaluated evidence over 4 years.
• An algorithm was developed based on intervention evidence and outcome measures.
• A prototype app was tested with a focus group (n=175) for feedback.

Main Results:

• The app development process involved extensive data assimilation and algorithm sequencing.
• Audience feedback on the prototype was highly favorable, providing concrete suggestions.
• Key suggestions included instructions, visuals, adverse response monitoring, updates, and autonomous patient use.

Conclusions:

• A simple, user-friendly app for decision-making in upper extremity stroke rehabilitation is feasible.
• The developed application is welcomed by therapists and has potential for widespread adoption.