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A multiple case design experiment to investigate the performance and neural effects of a programme for training hand function after stroke

Butler, Stuart R.; Turton, Ailie

Authors

Stuart R. Butler

Ailie Turton Ailie.Turton@uwe.ac.uk
Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy



Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effects of task-specific practice on hand function in stroke subjects who were given computer-assisted training and to look for associated changes in corticospinal connectivity. Design: Single case design experiments. Setting: Subjects' homes. Subjects: Seven chronic stroke subjects with impaired hand function. Interventions: Daily intensive practice of fast and accurate force changes in pinch grip and knob turning grip for four weeks. Main measures: Pinch and power grip strength and dexterity measured using the Ten-hole Peg Test and a timed nuts and bolts test were recorded twice a week throughout the study. Corticospinal connectivity was assessed by latency of electromyography (EMG) responses to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) recorded during the baseline weeks before the training and again immediately after the training period. Results: Subjects completed between 5760 and 18560 force changes. Clinically relevant improvements in grip strength were evident in only two subjects. None of the subjects showed clinically significant improvement in dexterity measures. Statistical analysis showed that improved performance was related to the training phase in only two subjects. A reduction in latency of EMG responses to TMS was seen in two subjects but could not be attributed to the training phase. Conclusions: The intensive training did not improve hand function in most subjects. Latencies of EMG responses to TMS were also unable to detect any change. © Arnold 2004.

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Nov 1, 2004
Journal Clinical Rehabilitation
Print ISSN 0269-2155
Electronic ISSN 1477-0873
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 18
Issue 7
Pages 754-763
DOI https://doi.org/10.1191/0269215504cr810oa
Keywords stroke, hand function
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1059624
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1191/0269215504cr810oa