Pilot randomized controlled trial to assess a physical therapy program on upper extremity function to counteract...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Physical Therapy
• Stroke Recovery

Background:

• Chronic stroke necessitates accessible physical therapy (PT) to maintain lifelong function.
• Counteracting inactivity is crucial for long-term stroke rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a novel PT program for chronic stroke.
• The program combined elastic band strengthening and bimanual functional training.
• Dosing was guided by the rate of perceived exertion (Borg scale).

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled pilot trial involved 15 chronic stroke subjects (>6 months post-stroke).
• Participants were assigned to either upper extremity (UE) or lower extremity (LE) training for three months.
• Assessments included Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), grip strength, and muscle tone at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up.

Main Results:

• The UE group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in upper extremity function and motor recovery (FMA, WMFT) compared to the LE group.
• No significant differences were observed in grip strength or muscle tone between groups.
• High adherence (≥85% attendance) and satisfaction were reported in the UE group, with no adverse events.

Conclusions:

• The investigated PT program is a potentially effective intervention for enhancing paretic upper extremity function and motor recovery in chronic stroke.
• This approach may encourage sustained active participation in exercise programs for stroke survivors.
• The program's feasibility and positive outcomes suggest its utility in long-term stroke management.