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Sensory-Based Priming for Upper Extremity Hemiparesis After Stroke: A Scoping Review
Mary E Stoykov1,2, Courtney Heidle3, Shamshir Kang3
1Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA.
OTJR : Occupation, Participation and Health
|July 27, 2021
Summary
Sensory priming techniques, including electrical stimulation and vibration, show promise for improving upper limb function after stroke. This method may enhance neuroplasticity and motor skills when used with rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Stroke often results in significant upper limb motor impairment.
- Neuroplasticity and motor skill enhancement are key goals in stroke recovery.
- Sensory priming is an emerging technique to facilitate these recovery processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effectiveness of sensory priming modalities in improving upper limb motor function post-stroke.
- To synthesize findings from studies utilizing peripheral nerve stimulation/somatosensory electrical stimulation (PNS/SES), transient functional deafferentation (TFD), and vibration.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and EMBASE in July 2020.
- This scoping review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and Cochrane collaboration recommendations.
- Thirty studies were included, analyzing TFD (3), PNS/SES (16), vibration (10), and combined techniques (1).
Main Results:
- The majority of included studies reported statistically significant improvements in upper limb motor impairment or function.
- Peripheral nerve stimulation/somatosensory electrical stimulation (PNS/SES) was the most frequently studied modality.
- Sensory priming interventions demonstrated positive outcomes across various studies.
Conclusions:
- Sensory priming, utilizing modalities like PNS/SES, TFD, and vibration, appears beneficial for upper limb recovery after stroke.
- The low-risk nature of these techniques suggests their utility.
- Integrating sensory priming before or during upper limb training may enhance rehabilitation outcomes.
