[Neurological rehabilitation of the hemiplegic worker]

The manifold parameters which characterize motor impairment in hemiplegic patients are analyzed and a review is outlined of the most suitable methods for a quantitative evaluation of changes in muscular stiffness (due to interstitial abnormality or to increase in reflex activity), diminution in voluntary motor recruitment and disequilibrium between agonist and antagonist activity. The problems concerning the hemiplegic hand have been the subject of follow-up studies with the aim of evaluating the different rehabilitation techniques. Significant improvements can be achieved by means of positional feedback and electrical stimulation of hand extensors according to Bowman; the indications, time and way of use are defined in relation to the degree and type of functional impairment.