Cerebrovascular Accident, Stroke
Conditions
Brief summary
The purpose of the study is to determine the effect of a combined mirror therapy and task oriented/repetitive task training on upper extremity function of persons with hemiplegia due to cerebrovascular accident or stroke.
Detailed description
This case series was designed to to determine the effect of a mirror therapy and repetitive task training program on the weak arm and hand functioning due to the consequences of stroke. Mirror therapy is a type of therapy mirror reflection of the stronger arm and hand helps to promote reorganization of neurons. Studies have shown that mirror therapy is an effective adjunct to regular exercise and task-oriented therapy. To qualify for this study, participants must meet the following criteria: 1) age 21 years or more; 2) first-time stroke with onset of at least 3 months; 3) slight movement of the weaker arm or /and hand; 3) stable physical and mental health; and 4) mentally capable and competent to make health care-related decisions and carry out a home program. Participants were required to come to Quinnipiac University - North Haven campus to undergo mirror therapy training, in 45-60 minute sessions, twice a week for one month. They were also required to complete pre-testing before and post-testing after the mirror therapy program. In addition, they were required to carry-out a home program that includes the use of a mirror box and self-selected tasks. The home program required them to exercise and practice the use of their more affected arm and hand for at least 1-2 hours a day. Participation was strictly voluntary. Participants were informed of the minimal risks involved as well as their options to continue or withdraw from the study upon initial consent. The study did not yield physical or mental harm to the participants.
Interventions
BEHAVIORALmirror therapy and repetitive task training
Sponsors
Quinnipiac University
Study design
Allocation
NA
Intervention model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
21 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* able to give consent, complete home program * minimal arm and hand use with the paretic limb * onset of stroke of at least 3 months
Exclusion criteria
* \>1 stroke episode * significant cognitive and visual perceptual deficit * lack of social support
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Change in Patient Specific Functional Scale | Change from baseline at 2 months | Patient Specific Functional Scale is a measure that involves self-rating of self-selected functional tasks |
| Change in Fugl Myer Motor Assessment | Change from baseline at 2 months | Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment is a clinical performance test of motor ability of the upper extremity |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Change in Motor Activity Log | Change from baseline at 2 months | The Motor Activity Log is a self-reported measure that captures the amount of arm and hand use and perception of movement quality of the impaired upper limb |
Outcome results
None listed