Manual function of the unaffected upper extremity can affect functional outcome after stroke

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Stroke recovery
• Motor function assessment

Background:

• Motor deficits on the ipsilesional (unaffected) side post-stroke are often overlooked.
• The impact of nonparetic limb impairment on overall functional recovery remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between manual function test (MFT) scores of the nonparetic limb and functional outcomes after stroke.
• To determine if nonparetic limb function predicts recovery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 71 hemiplegic stroke patients.
• Manual function tests (MFT) administered to both affected and unaffected limbs at admission and 1 month.
• Functional Independence Measure (FIM) total and self-care scores used to measure functional outcome.

Main Results:

• Initial MFT scores of the nonparetic limb significantly predicted 1-month FIM total scores (P<0.0001) and FIM self-care subscores (P<0.0001).
• Age, initial cognitive function, and MFT of both limbs were significant predictors of short-term functional outcome.

Conclusions:

• Initial manual function test scores of the nonparetic limb are strongly correlated with functional outcomes post-stroke.
• Rehabilitation strategies should include assessment and therapy for the nonparetic limb to optimize recovery.