Effects of task-based mirror therapy on upper limb motor function in hemiplegia: study protocol for a randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Stroke Recovery
• Motor Function Restoration

Background:

• Limited evidence exists on mirror therapy's efficacy for post-stroke upper extremity recovery.
• Previous studies may have yielded negative results due to a lack of patient stratification based on structural retention.
• Task-based mirror therapy (TBMT) utilizes an innovatively designed mirror to enhance upper limb functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of TBMT compared to standard occupational therapy for improving upper limb function in stroke patients.
• To investigate the potential of TBMT to enhance hand function recovery post-stroke.
• To explore the neural mechanisms underlying functional improvements achieved through TBMT.

Main Methods:

• A single-center randomized controlled trial involving 50 stroke patients.
• Random assignment to either task-based mirror therapy or a control group.
• Interventions administered 5 days/week for 4 weeks, with primary outcomes (FMA-UE, MBI) assessed at 4 and 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• Primary outcomes include mean change scores on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) and modified Barthel Index (MBI).
• Secondary outcomes encompass the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Nine Hole Peg Test (9HPT), Functional Independence Measure, and MRI.
• Analysis will compare outcomes between groups and within groups from baseline to follow-up.

Conclusions:

• This trial is expected to establish TBMT's effectiveness in improving post-stroke hand function.
• The study aims to elucidate the brain activation and network mechanisms associated with TBMT.
• Findings are anticipated to inform novel approaches for stroke hand function rehabilitation.