Aerobic exercise and consecutive task-specific training (AExaCTT) for upper limb recovery after stroke: A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Upper limb motor dysfunction is a common and disabling consequence of stroke.
• Task-specific training (TST) is a recognized intervention for improving motor function.
• The potential benefit of augmenting TST with aerobic exercise (AEX) requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial comparing AEX + TST to TST alone in individuals with post-stroke upper limb dysfunction.
• To evaluate recruitment, adherence, retention, and participant acceptability of the combined intervention.

Main Methods:

• A parallel-group, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Participants with upper limb motor dysfunction post-stroke were allocated to either TST or AEX + TST.
• Both groups received 60 hours of TST over 10 weeks, with the AEX + TST group performing 30 minutes of aerobic exercise prior to TST sessions.

Main Results:

• Twenty participants were recruited over 17 months, with high retention rates (80-85%) and good adherence (93% for AEX + TST, 89% for TST).
• No adverse events were reported, and the AEX + TST intervention was perceived as acceptable (100%) and beneficial (87.5%).
• The AEX + TST group reported higher exertional fatigue and performed 31% fewer repetitions per session compared to the TST group.

Conclusions:

• A subsequent Phase III study investigating AEX + TST for post-stroke upper limb dysfunction is feasible.
• Modifications to eligibility criteria, outcome measures, and intervention delivery are recommended for future trials.