Art Therapy and Its Effect on Motor Function Rehabilitation in the Subacute Phase of Stroke Recovery

Inclusion criteria

1. Study Participants: Stroke patients aged 40-75. Patients in this age group generally have a higher incidence of stroke and show relatively higher plasticity during the rehabilitation process. 2. Type of Stroke: First occurrence of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, confirmed by imaging (CT or MRI). This helps to ensure consistency in the type of stroke among participants, reducing rehabilitation differences caused by varying stroke types. 3. Time Since Stroke Onset: Between 2 weeks and 3 months post-stroke (broadly defined subacute phase). During this phase, patients have usually transitioned out of the acute treatment phase and exhibit significant plasticity in physical and psychological recovery, making it a critical period for rehabilitation. 4. Severity of Stroke Sequelae: Stroke sequelae should be mild to moderate (Modified Rankin Scale score of 2 to 3). These patients have some level of independent mobility but still require rehabilitation training to further improve function. 5. Cognitive Ability: Participants must have basic cognitive function and be able to understand and comply with research requirements. This ensures that patients can effectively participate in art therapy and accurately report subjective experiences. 6. Emotional Status: Participants' levels of depression, anxiety, or stress should be mild to moderate at the start of the study. Patients with severe psychological disorders may require more intensive psychological support, which falls outside the scope of this study. 7. Language and Communication Skills: Participants must possess basic language expression and comprehension abilities to engage in and understand interactions during art therapy sessions. This ensures effective communication with the therapist. 8. Physical Condition: Participants must have the basic physical functions necessary to participate in art therapy, such as the ability to perform simple limb movements and activities. Severe physical disabilities may prevent participation in art activities. 9. Living Environment: Participants should reside in an area that allows them to regularly travel to the treatment site and have a relatively stable living environment. This helps ensure that patients can attend each therapy session on time and complete the entire intervention cycle. 10. Consent to Participate: Both the patient and their family members must fully understand the purpose, process, and potential risks of the study and be willing to sign an informed consent form. This ensures that patients fully comprehend their responsibilities and rights when participating in the study. 11. No Prior Psychological or Art Therapy: Participants must not have received any form of psychological therapy, art therapy, or similar rehabilitation intervention in the past 6 months to exclude the impact of other interventions on the study results.