Correlations between arm motor behavior and brain function following bilateral arm training after stroke: a...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Motor Control

Background:

• Bilateral training (BT) of the upper limb (UL) is a potential strategy to enhance arm function recovery post-stroke.
• Understanding the relationship between motor behavior and neuroplasticity is crucial for optimizing BT efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and determine the correlation between upper limb (UL) motor behavior and brain structure/function following bilateral arm training in stroke survivors.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of different BT modalities.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of quantitative studies was conducted, searching eleven electronic databases.
• Two independent reviewers selected studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) tool.
• Studies were included if they evaluated both UL motor behavior and neuroplasticity after BT.

Main Results:

• Eight studies with 164 participants met the inclusion criteria; only two were rated as "strong" quality.
• Significant heterogeneity in participants, BT methods, and outcome measures precluded pooled analysis.
• Inconsistent associations were found between UL function changes and neural plasticity; only two studies reported a statistical correlation.

Conclusions:

• No clear pattern of association between upper limb motor improvements and neural response to bilateral training was identified.
• The neural correlates of motor behavior response to BT after stroke remain largely unknown.
• Further research is required to elucidate the full therapeutic potential of BT and its various modes.