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Updated: Feb 14, 2026
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Kinematic Analysis Using 3D Motion Capture of Drinking Task in People With and Without Upper-extremity Impairments
Published on: March 28, 2018
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Mirror Therapy and Task-Oriented Training for People With a Paretic Upper Extremity
Salvador Bondoc1, Julie Booth2, Grace Budde3
1Salvador Bondoc, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Professor and Chair of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT; salvador.bondoc@qu.edu.
Summary
Mirror therapy combined with task-oriented training improved upper extremity function and occupational performance in stroke survivors. This approach led to meaningful gains in self-identified goals and movement quality.
Area of Science:
- Neurorehabilitation
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
Background:
- Stroke often results in hemiparesis, affecting upper extremity function and daily activities.
- Restoring motor control and functional independence is a primary goal in stroke rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of mirror therapy as a preparatory technique for task-oriented training.
- To assess the impact of this combined intervention on paretic upper extremity function and occupational performance in stroke patients.
Main Methods:
- A repeated-measures, case-series design involving 4 participants with stroke.
- A 4-week intervention combining mirror therapy and task-specific training, with sessions conducted both in-clinic and at home.
- Intervention frequency: 2 times/week in clinic, 4 times/week at home.
Main Results:
- All participants achieved clinically meaningful improvements in self-identified goals.
- Three participants demonstrated significant improvements in motor function.
- All participants showed enhanced perceived movement quality, with one participant also reporting increased use of the affected limb.
Conclusions:
- Mirror therapy, when integrated with task-oriented training, is a viable approach for enhancing upper extremity function post-stroke.
- The combined therapy demonstrates potential for improving occupational performance and quality of movement in individuals with hemiparesis.
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