Upper limb strength training in subacute stroke patients: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Stroke frequently causes arm paresis and functional impairments, necessitating caregiver support.
• Progressive resistance training aids functional recovery, but evidence for subacute stroke patients is limited.
• This study addresses the evidence gap regarding arm strength training in subacute stroke survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the safety and effectiveness of high-intensity arm strength training in subacute stroke patients.
• To compare high-intensity arm training against low-intensity training in stroke rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 78 subacute stroke patients.
• Patients were randomized 1:1 to high-intensity or low-intensity arm training groups for three weeks, in addition to standard care.
• Primary outcome was grip strength; secondary outcomes included spasticity, motor function, and functional assessments.

Main Results:

• Grip strength was the primary efficacy endpoint.
• Secondary outcomes included Modified Ashworth Scale, Motricity Index, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Box and Block Test, and Goal Attainment Scale.
• Adverse events and drop-out rates were systematically recorded.

Conclusions:

• This trial aims to provide robust evidence on the effects and safety of high-intensity arm training for subacute stroke patients.
• Results will inform clinical practice and future rehabilitation strategies for stroke survivors with arm paresis.