Art skill-based rehabilitation training for upper limb sensorimotor recovery post-stroke: A feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Occupational Therapy
• Stroke Recovery

Background:

• Stroke often results in upper limb motor impairment, affecting daily activities.
• Standard rehabilitation may not fully address sensorimotor deficits.
• Novel therapeutic approaches are needed to enhance motor recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of delivering Art skill-based Rehabilitation Training (ART) to stroke patients.
• To evaluate the adherence, acceptability, and safety of the ART program as an adjunct to standard care.
• To determine if ART can be effectively implemented in an inpatient stroke rehabilitation setting.

Main Methods:

• A feasibility study was conducted in an inpatient stroke rehabilitation unit.
• Thirty-eight patients with upper limb motor impairment participated in the ART program.
• The ART program involved nine supervised drawing sessions delivered over 3 weeks or the duration of the hospital stay.

Main Results:

• 84% of participants completed the ART program, with high adherence (93-100% of tasks).
• The program was highly acceptable to patients and facilitators provided effective assistance.
• No study-related adverse events were reported, indicating good safety.

Conclusions:

• Art skill-based Rehabilitation Training (ART) is a feasible and well-accepted intervention for stroke patients.
• The program's high adherence and safety support its integration into inpatient stroke rehabilitation.
• Further research should investigate ART's impact on upper limb sensorimotor function and use.