Motion Analysis of the Mug Transportation Task Through Upper Limb Kinematics

The task of transporting objects is a fundamental part of daily living activities. Previous kinematic studies focusing on tasks such as pointing, reach-to-grasp, and drinking have not fully captured the motor behaviors involved in object transportation, including placing a cup on a table or storing items in specific places. Hence, this study aimed to analyze the motor behavior associated with transporting a mug using upper limb kinematic variables. Fifteen healthy adults were instructed to transport an open-handle mug across a table. The kinematic metrics evaluated included object end-error for accuracy, frontal and lateral end-range for precision, movement time, peak velocity, time to peak velocity for control strategy, object path ratio for efficiency, and interjoint coordination. The stability of motor behavior was assessed through a test-retest analysis. The mug transporting task achieved accuracy with a radius <10 mm around the target, a peak velocity of ∼0.4 m/s, a control strategy where acceleration time constituted about 30% of the movement time, and a slightly curved trajectory. The test-retest analysis confirmed stable motor behavior across all kinematic metrics (ICCs > 0.75). Thus, the mug transporting task exhibited unique and stable kinematic characteristics, distinguishing it from non-transport activities and effectively mirroring transporting activities of daily living.

Barriers to self-administered home-based task-oriented practice post-stroke: development and content validity of a new instrument

PURPOSE

To develop a new instrument to identify barriers to self-administered home-based task-oriented practice post-stroke and test its content validity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample consisted of individuals with stroke and neurological rehabilitation professionals. The study consisted of two steps: (1) Instrument development, involving three processes; a data search in the literature, interviews with the target population and an open questionnaire (online) sent to professionals; and (2) Testing the content validity of the instrument by asking individuals with stroke and professionals about the comprehensiveness and relevance of the items and additionally asking individuals with stroke about the comprehensibility of the items. For each item in the instrument, the threshold validity scores were ≥0.80 in the Content Validity Index and ≥0.75 for the Kappa agreement.

RESULTS

The preliminary version was developed with 46 items. The content validation was performed in three rounds. The last version of the instrument Barriers to self-administered home-based task-oriented practice post-stroke (BASH-TOP-Stroke) contained 34 items in five response categories, in which the higher the value presented, the greater the number of barriers. The content validity for the items was excellent.

CONCLUSIONS

The study provides a new instrument to help identify barriers to self-administered home-based task-oriented practice post-stroke.

Validity, Reliability, and Measurement Error of the Remote Fugl-Meyer Assessment by Videoconferencing: Tele-FMA

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the validity, reliability, and measurement error of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) when it was remotely administered by videoconferencing (Tele-FMA) and to describe barriers to remote administration of the FMA.

METHODS

Forty-five participants who had strokes and had a smartphone or laptop computer with a camera and internet access were included. An in-person assessment was compared with a remote assessment in 11 participants, and 34 participants completed only the remote assessment. Rater 1 (R1) remotely administered, recorded, and scored the items of the FMA, after which the recording was forwarded to be scored by Rater 2. At least 7 days later, R1 rated the videorecording of the remote assessment a second time for the evaluation of intrarater reliability. In-person assessment was completed by R1 at the participant's home. Criterion validity was analyzed using the Bland-Altman limits of agreement, and convergent validity was analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficient. The intrarater and interrater reliability was analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient, and individual items were analyzed using the weighted kappa. The standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change were calculated to evaluate the measurement error.

RESULTS

Bland-Altman plots showed adequate agreement of in-person FMA and tele-FMA. A moderate positive correlation was found between Tele-FMA lower extremity (LE) scores and step test results, and a strong positive correlation was found between Tele-FMA-upper extremity (UE) and Stroke Impact Scale hand function domain. Significant and excellent (0.96 ≤ ICC ≤ 0.99) interrater and intrarater reliabilities of the Tele-FMA, Tele-FMA-UE, and tele-FMA-LE were found. Regarding the individual items, most showed excellent reliability (weighted kappa > 0.70). The standard error of measurement for both reliabilities was small (≤3.1 points). The minimal detectable change with 95% CI for both the Tele-FMA and Tele-FMA-UE was 2.5 points, whereas it was 1.3 points for the Tele-FMA-LE.

CONCLUSION

Tele-FMA has excellent intrarater and interrater reliability and should be considered as a valid measurement.

IMPACT

The FMA is widely used in clinical practice. However, the measurement properties of the remote version applied by videoconferencing were unknown. This study's results demonstrate the validity and reliability of the Tele-FMA for assessing poststroke motor impairment remotely via videoconferencing. The Tele-FMA may be used to implement telerehabilitation in clinical practice.

Shoulder complex and trunk coordination of individuals with severe hemiparesis following a constraint-induced movement therapy protocol: A case series

INTRODUCTION

Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) has been shown to be an effective rehabilitation technique in individuals with mild and moderate upper limb (UL) hemiparesis. The aim was to evaluate the effect the CIMT for improving paretic UL use and interjoint coordination with individuals in severe hemiparesis.

METHODS

Six individuals with severe chronic hemiparesis (mean age = 55 ± 16 years) received a UL CIMT intervention for 2 weeks. UL clinical assessments were conducted five times: two assessments at pre-intervention and then, one assessment at post-intervention and 1- and 3-month follow-up using the Graded Motor Activity Log GMAL) and the Graded Wolf Motor Function Test (GWMFT). Scapula, humerus and trunk coordination variability were assessed using the 3-D kinematics during arm elevation, combing hair, turning on the switch and grasp a washcloth. A paired t-test was used to check differences between coordination variability and a one-way ANOVA repeated measures was used to check differences between GMAL and GWMFT scores.

RESULTS

There were no differences in GMAL and GWMFT between the patient screening and the baseline data collection (p > 0.05). GMAL scores increased at post-intervention and at follow-ups (p < 0.02). GWMFT performance time score decreased at post-intervention and at 1-month follow-up (p < 0.04). Improvements in kinematic variability of the paretic UL at pre and post-intervention were observed in all tasks, except in the activity of turn on the light switch.

CONCLUSION

Following the CIMT protocol, improvements in GMAL and GWMFT scores may reflect improvements in paretic UL performance, in real-life environment. Improvements in kinematic variability may reflect an improving of UL interjoint coordination for individuals with chronic severe hemiparesis.

Manual Dexterity Is Associated With Use of the Paretic Upper Extremity in Community-Dwelling Individuals With Stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Regarding people with stroke, simple outcome measures in clinical settings capable of representing the actual use of the upper extremity (UE) would be useful to rehabilitation professionals for the purposes of goal setting. This study seeks to describe the relative levels of paretic UE use, investigate the association between manual dexterity and task-related UE use, and to establish the manual dexterity cutoff points that correspond to relative levels of paretic UE use.

METHODS

Forty-six adults with chronic hemiparesis participated in this cross-sectional study. Behavioral mapping was employed to ascertain the actual amount of UE use by the identifying the unimanual and bimanual activities performed in the participants' homes within a 4-hour period. Participants were classified into 4 levels of paretic UE integration into activities considering the data from the behavioral mapping (activity, hand function, and type of grasp). The Box and Block Test (BBT) and the Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT) were used to evaluate dexterity. The Spearman test was used to evaluate the correlations. In analyzing the receiver operating characteristic curve, we applied the Youden index to determine the cutoff points.

RESULTS

Participants with full/almost full (n = 11), partial (n = 12), and limited (n = 12) integration of the paretic UE into activities and with little/no use (n = 11) were identified. Unimanual and total paretic UE activities were found to have a high correlation with the BBT scores. The boundaries between the integration levels were between full/almost full and partial integration, BBT greater than 30 blocks or NHPT of 41 seconds and less; between partial and limited, BBT greater than 16 blocks; and between limited and little/no use, BBT greater than 3 blocks. Both tests show good accuracy (≥0.81).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The BBT presents a positive high correlation with paretic UE use at home and was shown to be better able to identify "limited" and "partial" integration of the paretic UE. Both tests can identify when the paretic UE is fully/almost fully integrated into activities at home.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A354).

Bilateral capacity is related to bilateral upper limb use after stroke: a study by behavioral maps, accelerometers and perceived amount of use

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the following in individuals after stroke: (1) relationship between upper limb (UL) use by direct observation at home with use perceived and measured by accelerometers; (2) complementarity of these three measurements; and (3) relationship between UL bilateral capacity and bilateral use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-one individuals with chronic hemiparesis participated in this cross-sectional study. UL use was assessed using a behavioral map (BM), the Motor Activity Log-Amount of Use (MAL-AOU), and accelerometers, while UL capacity was assessed using the Test d'Evaluation des Membres Supérieurs des Personnes Âgées (TEMPA).

RESULTS

The BM was strongly correlated with perceived use (MAL-AOU, ρ = 0.76) and accelerometer (ρ = 0.70). Bilateral UL use (BM) was moderately (ρ = 0.65) correlated with bilateral MAL-AOU and bilateral use by accelerometers (ρ = 0.62). The BM aided our understanding of how the paretic UL was used. The correlation between bilateral capacity (TEMPA bilateral) and bilateral use (BM) was significant (ρ = 0.49), while that with bilateral MAL-AOU and accelerometer were ρ = 0.68 and ρ = 0.50, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A BM is a valid way to quantify UL use and can complement information assessed regarding perceived use and by accelerometers.Implications for rehabilitationBehavioral maps may be valuable to complement information assessed by perceived UL use and accelerometers.Quantifying bilateral capacity will reflect in a better understanding of actual paretic UL use after stroke.Accelerometers can underestimate the amount of paretic UL use in asymmetrical bilateral tasks.

The kinematics of paretic lower limb in aquatic gait with equipment in people with post-stroke hemiparesis

BACKGROUND

Devices are commonly used in aquatic gait rehabilitation; therefore, investigating the effect of these devices is important. We evaluated the combined use of buoyancy cuffs and ankle weights during aquatic gait on paretic leg kinematics in people with hemiparesis.

METHODS

Fifteen adults (58.6 ± 4.8 years) in the chronic phase post-stroke walked on a 4.5 m walkway with underwater immersion at the height of the xiphoid process in five conditions: (1) without equipment; (2) with ankle weights or (3) buoyancy cuffs on both legs; (4) with a buoyancy leg cuff on the non-paretic leg and an ankle weight on the paretic leg; (5) with an ankle weight on the non-paretic leg and a buoyancy leg cuff on the paretic leg. Five trials were performed for each condition for a total of 25 trials and the kinematic data were recorded. Analysis of covariance was used with walking velocity as a covariate to analyze spatiotemporal and angular variables of the paretic leg.

FINDINGS

The condition with buoyancy cuff on the paretic leg increased (~20°) the maximum angle of knee flexion in the mid-swing phase compared to that seen with weights on both legs or weight on the paretic leg. Buoyancy cuffs on the paretic leg increased the step length by 5.6 cm. The ankle weights on the paretic leg condition increased the total (6%) and single support (4%) duration compared to that seen with a buoyancy cuff on the paretic leg.

INTERPRETATION

Aquatic gait with buoyancy cuffs on both legs or on the paretic leg can modify gait kinematics compared to that with weight on both legs or on the paretic leg. Long term effects of training with those conditions needs further research.

Cryotherapy reduces muscle hypertonia, but does not affect lower limb strength or gait kinematics post-stroke: a randomized controlled crossover study

BACKGROUND

Based on the premise that spasticity might affect gait post-stroke, cryotherapy is among the techniques used to temporarily reduce spasticity in neurological patients. This effective technique would enhance muscle performance, and ultimately, functional training, such as walking. However, understanding whether a decrease in spasticity level, if any, would lead to improving muscle performance and gait parameters is not based on evidence and needs to be clarified.

OBJECTIVES

to investigate the immediate effects of cryotherapy, applied to spastic plantarflexor muscles of subjects post-stroke, on tonus level, torque generation capacity of plantarflexors and dorsiflexors, and angular/spatiotemporal gait parameters.

METHODS

Sixteen chronic hemiparetic subjects participated in this randomized controlled crossover study. Cryotherapy (ice pack) or Control (room temperature sand pack) were applied to the calf muscles of the paretic limb. The measurements taken (before and immediately after intervention) were: 1) Tonus according to the Modified Ashworth Scale; 2) Torque assessments were performed using an isokinetic dynamometer; and 3) Spatiotemporal and angular kinematics of the hip, knee, and ankle (flexion/extension), obtained using a tridimensional movement analysis system (Qualisys).

RESULTS

Cryotherapy decreased plantarflexor tonus but did not change muscle torque generation capacity and did not affect spatiotemporal or angular parameters during gait compared to control application. These findings contribute to the evidence-based approach to clinical rehabilitation post-stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study suggest that cryotherapy applied to the calf muscles of subjects with chronic hemiparesis reduces muscle hypertonia but does not improve dorsiflexors and plantarflexors performance and gait parameters.

Hand function and type of grasp used by chronic stroke individuals in actual environment

BACKGROUND

Knowledge of paretic upper limb (UL) use in the actual environment is crucial for defining treatment strategies that are likely to enhance performance.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the hand function and type of grasp performed in the actual environment following stroke and determine if any differences in hand use are dependent on the degree of motor impairment.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study enrolled 41 participants with chronic hemiparesis classified as having either mild (11), moderate (20), or severe (10) UL impairment. A behavioral map was used while observing hand use over the 4-h experimental period, during which we checked: activity- unimanual, bimanual or non-task-related; hand function- stabilization, manipulation, reach-to-grasp, gesture, support or push; and type of grasp- digital or whole-hand.

RESULTS

Participants with severe impairment did not use the paretic UL spontaneously; analyzing the moderate and mild subgroup together, the predominant UL hand functions were stabilization and manipulation, the paretic UL performs the stabilization function using the whole-hand more frequently (71.2%) than digital (28.8%) grasp. In the subgroup analysis, the paretic and non-paretic UL in the moderate and the paretic UL in the mild subgroup perform the whole-hand stabilization more frequently than digital. Digital grasp is more accomplished by the non-paretic UL in reach-to-grasp hand function, particularly in the mild subgroup.

CONCLUSION

The paretic UL is predominantly employed for stabilization function using a whole-hand grasp. The type of grasp in the actual environment is affected by motor impairment, and greater motor impairment leads to the performance of less complex tasks.

"Test D'évaluation Des Membres Supérieurs Des Personnes Âgées" (TEMPA) to assess upper limb activity in Parkinson's disease

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional and observational study.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Assess upper limb (UL) activity limitations using the "Test d'Evaluation des Membres Supérieurs Des Personnes Agées" (TEMPA) in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) and verify its clinimetrics properties.

METHODS

The following were evaluated: internal consistency, interrater and test-retest reliability; concurrent validity; convergent validity; know group's validity; minimal detectable change, floor and ceiling effects, and the relationship between UL activity limitations and the presence of freezing of gait.

RESULTS

Excellent reliability and interrater agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.99 and κ = 0.92) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.97) were found, as well internal consistency (α = 0.99). A moderate negative correlation was found between TEMPA and section II of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (ρ = -0.58; P = .001), and moderate/low between the test and the Nine Hole Peg Test values of the right UL and moderate for left UL (ρ = 0.56 and ρ = 0.41; P = .001) (ρ = 0.52 and ρ = 0.51; P = .001 and P = .002), respectively. No significant relationship was found with freezing episodes (P = .057).

DISCUSSION

TEMPA is useful for assessing UL activity limitations in PD, have adequate clinimetrics properties and is capable of detecting the influence of motor symptoms during the carrying out of daily living tasks. No differences were found between freezers and no freezers.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A.

Feasibility and effectiveness of adding object-related bilateral symmetrical training to mirror therapy in chronic stroke: A randomized controlled pilot study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of adding object-related bilateral symmetrical training to mirror therapy (MT) to improve upper limb (UL) activity in chronic stroke patients.

METHOD

Sixteen patients with moderate UL impairment were randomly allocated to either the experimental (EG) or control (CG) group. Both groups performed 1 hour sessions, 3 days/week for 4 weeks, involving object-related bilateral symmetrical training. EG performed the tasks observing their nonparetic UL reflected in the mirror, while CG observed the paretic UL directly. The primary outcome measure was unilateral and bilateral UL activity according to the Test d'Évaluation des Membres Supérieurs de Personnes Âgées (TEMPA). All measurements were taken at baseline, post-training, and follow-up (2 weeks).

RESULTS

TEMPA total score showed the main effect of time. Significant improvement was found for bilateral but not unilateral tasks. Both groups showed gains after training, with no differences between them.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed the feasibility of adding object-related bilateral training to MT. Both types of training improved UL bilateral activity; however, a larger sample is required for a definitive study. Other studies need to be carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of combining more distal-oriented movements and object-related unilateral training to improve these effects in chronic stroke patients.

Effect of backward walking treadmill training on walking capacity after stroke: a randomized clinical trial

RATIONALE

Residual walking deficits are common in people after stroke. Treadmill training can increase walking speed and walking distance. A new way to increase the challenge of walking is to walk backwards. Backward treadmill walking may provide advantages by promoting improvement in balance, walking spatiotemporal parameters and quality that may reflect in improving walking distance.

AIM

This study will test the hypothesis that backward treadmill walking is superior to forward treadmill walking in improving walking capacity, walking parameters, quality and balance in people with stroke.

DESIGN

A prospective, single-blinded, randomized trial will randomly allocate 88 community-dwelling people after stroke into either an experimental or control group. The experimental group will undertake 30-min sessions of backward treadmill walking, three-days/week for six-weeks, while the control group will undertake the same dose of forward treadmill walking. Training will begin at the baseline overground walking speed and will increase each week by 10% of baseline speed.

STUDY OUTCOMES

The primary outcome will be distance walked in the 6-min Walk Test. Secondary outcomes will be walking speed, step length, cadence, and one-leg stance time. Outcomes will be collected by a researcher blinded to group allocation at baseline (Week 0), at the end of training period (Week 6), and three-months after the cessation of intervention (Week 18).

DISCUSSION

If backward treadmill walking can improve walking capacity more than forward treadmill training in stroke, it may have broader implications because walking capacity has been shown to predict physical activity level and community participation.

Frequência cardíaca e percepção subjetiva de esforço durante o andar para trás em velocidade confortável e máxima em adultos com hemiparesia

INTRODUÇÃO E OBJETIVO: Estudos sobre o andar para trás (AT) em indivíduos saudáveis demonstraram que esse exercício demanda maior consumo de oxigênio e esforço cardiopulmonar comparado ao andar para frente (AF). Em indivíduos após acidente vascular encefálico (AVE), o AT demonstrou ser uma forma de terapia benéfica para melhorar parâmetros de marcha. Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar as variáveis frequência cardíaca (FC) e percepção subjetiva de esforço (PSE) entre o AF e AT em esteira rolante em duas velocidades distintas em indivíduos com hemiparesia, algo que poderá contribuir para a definição da melhor estratégia para colocar os indivíduos na zona-alvo de um exercício visando ao aprimoramento das condições cardiorrespiratórias. MÉTODOS: Participaram 13 indivíduos adultos de ambos os sexos (53,7 ± 13,5 anos) com sequela de AVE crônica (38,5 ± 31,2 meses de acometimento). Os indivíduos realizaram a tarefa de AT na esteira em velocidade confortável e máxima, repetindo os procedimentos em velocidades idênticas durante o AF. Foi utilizada uma ANOVA fatorial para testar o efeito do sentido (AF e AT) e da velocidade (confortável e máxima) sobre a FC e PSE. RESULTADOS: A FC foi maior durante o AT nas duas velocidades, sendo essa incrementada com o aumento da velocidade (p < 0,01 para todas comparações). Da mesma forma, a PSE foi maior durante o AT nas duas velocidades, sendo incrementada com o aumento da velocidade (p < 0,01 para todas as comparações). CONCLUSÃO: Andar para trás é uma atividade física mais intensa que andar para frente em uma mesma velocidade para indivíduos com hemiparesia. Os achados sugerem que esta atividade poderia ser uma alternativa na realização de programas com ênfase no condicionamento cardiopulmonar e como complemento de outros procedimentos na reeducação do andar após AVE.

Using an accelerometer for analyzing a reach-to-grasp movement after stroke

The purpose of this study was using an accelerometer to access the kinematics of reach-to-grasp movements in subjects with hemiparesis. Eight subjects (59.4 ± 6.9 years old) with chronic hemiparesis (50.9 ± 25.8 months post-stroke) participated in this study. Kinematic assessment was performed using a triaxial accelerometer (EMG Systems, Brazil) attached to the subjects' forearm. Ten reach-to-grasp movements of grabbing a 500ml-size bottle were performed by the subjects with the paretic and the non-paretic upper limbs (ULs). The following space-temporal variables were calculated and used to compare the paretic and non-paretic ULs: movement time (MT), time to reach the peak velocity, absolute and relative (TPV and TPV%MT), relative deceleration duration (DEC%MT), time to peak acceleration (TPA) and peak hand acceleration (PA). Movements were slower in the paretic UL with increased MT, TPA and DEC. The accelerometer allowed to identify of changes in reaching-to-grasp movements of subjects with hemiparesis. When complex systems are not available, accelerometers can be an alternative to measure UL movements.

Effect of skilled and unskilled training on nerve regeneration and functional recovery

The most disabling aspect of human peripheral nerve injuries, the majority of which affect the upper limbs, is the loss of skilled hand movements. Activity-induced morphological and electrophysiological remodeling of the neuromuscular junction has been shown to influence nerve repair and functional recovery. In the current study, we determined the effects of two different treatments on the functional and morphological recovery after median and ulnar nerve injury. Adult Wistar male rats weighing 280 to 330 g at the time of surgery (N = 8-10 animals/group) were submitted to nerve crush and 1 week later began a 3-week course of motor rehabilitation involving either "skilled" (reaching for small food pellets) or "unskilled" (walking on a motorized treadmill) training. During this period, functional recovery was monitored weekly using staircase and cylinder tests. Histological and morphometric nerve analyses were used to assess nerve regeneration at the end of treatment. The functional evaluation demonstrated benefits of both tasks, but found no difference between them (P > 0.05). The unskilled training, however, induced a greater degree of nerve regeneration as evidenced by histological measurement (P < 0.05). These data provide evidence that both of the forelimb training tasks used in this study can accelerate functional recovery following brachial plexus injury.

Motor Activity Log-Brazil: reliability and relationships with motor impairments in individuals with chronic stroke

The Motor Activity Log (MAL) assesses the spontaneous use of the most affected upper limb with the amount of use (AOU) and quality of movement (QOM) scales during daily activities in real environments in individuals with chronic stroke. Objectives: This study translated the testing manual into Portuguese and assessed the inter-rater and test-retest reliabilities of the MAL, based upon the Brazilian manual version. Methods: The inter-rater reliability was evaluated by comparing the results of two examiners, and the test-retest reliability was tested by comparing the results of two evaluations, repeated one-week apart with 30 individuals with chronic hemiparesis (55.8±15.1 years). Results: The intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the total scores were adequate for both the inter-rater (0.98 for the AOU and 0.91 for QOM) and test-retest reliabilities (0.99 for both scales). Conclusions: The results suggested that the MAL was reliable to evaluate the spontaneous use of the most affected upper limb after stroke.

Effects of Trunk Restraint in Addition to Home-Based Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy after Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Rationale

Upper limb deficits contribute to disabilities after stroke, and constraint-induced movement therapy has been recommended to improve functional activity. People with stroke excessively move their trunk when reaching and grasping objects. Therefore, trunk restraints in addition to constraint-induced movement therapy may provide advantages over constraint-induced movement therapy alone by promoting both increases in upper limb use and movement recovery. Although a pilot study has previously evaluated this combination, the assessors were not blinded, thus compromising the validity of the results.

Aim

This study will test the hypothesis that home-based constraint-induced movement therapy plus trunk restraints are superior to constraint-induced movement therapy alone in improving strength, function, and participation with chronic stroke patients.

Design

For this prospective, blinded, randomized clinical trial, people after stroke will be randomly allocated into either experimental or control groups. The experimental group will undertake three-hours/day of modified constraint-induced movement therapy plus trunk restraints to prevent trunk displacements, five-days/week over two-weeks, while the control group only will undertake the same doses of modified constraint-induced movement therapy. At baseline, after two-weeks of interventions, and four and 12 weeks after the cessation of the interventions, researchers blinded to group allocations will collect outcome measures. The interventions will be delivered in the individuals' homes by trained physical therapists. The constraint-induced movement therapy will include shaping, task practice, and the transfer packages.

Study outcomes

Primary outcomes will be the upper limb function (referred amounts and quality of movement). Secondary outcomes will be measured for levels of impairments (strength and dexterity), activity (reaching kinematics and observed upper limb function), and levels of participation (quality of life).

Vertical reaction forces and kinematics of backward walking underwater

The aim of this study was to compare the first and second peaks of the vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) and kinematics at initial contact (IC) and final stance (FS) during walking in one of two directions (forward×backward) and two environments (on land×underwater). Twenty-two adults (24.6±2.6 years) walking forward (FW) and backward (BW) on a 7.5m walkway with a central force plate. Underwater immersion was at the height of the Xiphoid process. Ten trials were performed for each condition giving a total of 40 trials where the VGRF and kinematic data were recorded. Two-way repeated measures analysis of covariance was used with a combination of environment and direction of walking: FW on land, FW underwater, BW on land and BW underwater (entered as between-subjects factor) and repeated measures of VGRF peaks (first and second) or angles (at IC and FS). Walking velocity was included as a covariate. Both VGRF peaks were reduced when participants walked underwater compared to on land (p<.001). For BW, in both environments, the second peak was lower than the first (p<.001; for both). During BW at IC the ankle is more dorsiflexed and the knee is more flexed, both on land and underwater. At FS, there was no difference between the ankle angle for FW and BW in both environments. At IC, in FW and BW the knee and hip are more flexed underwater. BW underwater involves a lower VGRF and more knee and hip flexion than BW on land.

Relação entre nível de atividade física, equilíbrio e qualidade de vida em indivíduos com hemiparesia

INTRODUÇÃO: A atividade física proporciona benefícios sobre o sistema neurológico, em particular, sobre as deficiências motoras e de equilíbrio, sendo estes déficits importantes em indivíduos com sequelas após acidente vascular encefálico (AVE). OBJETIVO: Avaliar a relação existente entre o equilíbrio e nível de confiança no equilíbrio com o nível de atividade física e com a qualidade de vida (QV) de indivíduos com hemiparesia após AVE. Método: Participaram 19 indivíduos (57,8 ± 14,1 anos) com hemiparesia crônica (44,1 ± 37,9 meses). Avaliou-se o perfil de atividade humana (PAH), o nível de confiança no equilíbrio (ABC), o equilíbrio funcional (BERG) e a QV (EQVEAVE). Os dados foram submetidos ao teste de coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. RESULTADOS: O PAH ajustado apresentou uma correlação positiva forte para o BERG (ρ = 0,73) e uma correlação positiva moderada para o ABC (ρ = 0,64). A QV (total) e os domínios de papéis familiares e mobilidade da EQVE-AVE apresentaram correlações moderadas para BERG e ABC (ρ entre 0,53 e 0,67). O PAH total e ajustado apresentaram correlação positiva moderada com os domínios mobilidade (respectivamente, ρ = 0,48 e ρ = 0,71), autocuidado (ρ = 0,48 e ρ = 0,65), função do membro superior (ρ = 0,56 para ambos) e visão (ρ = 0,49 e ρ = 0,69). CONCLUSÃO: Sugere-se que quanto mais ativo o indivíduo se apresenta melhor será seu equilíbrio e sua confiança no equilibrar-se, tanto na realização das atividades de vida diária (AVDs) como também nas atividades físicas, com um impacto positivo na sua QV. Diante disto, é de extrema importância o desenvolvimento de programas de atividade física voltados para indivíduos com hemiparesia após AVE.

Características espaço-temporais do andar para trás em indivíduos com hemiparesia

O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar as variáveis espaço-temporais entre o andar para frente (AF) e para trás (AT) em indivíduos com hemiparesia. Dez participantes com hemiparesia crônica (30,6±25,1 meses), comprometimento motor leve (20-31 pontos no Fugl-Meyer-membro inferior), bom equilíbrio (escore=50±7 na escala de Berg) e marcha independente (capaz de caminhar 10 metros sem auxilio) foram filmados caminhando em velocidade confortável, com marcadores reflexivos nos maléolos laterais. As variáveis comprimento, duração e velocidade da passada, bem como duração do apoio foram analisadas pela ANOVA com 2 fatores: tarefa e membro inferior. O comprimento da passada foi menor (~44cm) no AT do que no AF (F(1,18)=130,94; p≤0,001), assim como a velocidade da passada (F(1,18)=163,78;p≤0,001) e da marcha (t19=10,99;p≤0,001). A duração da passada e do apoio foram respectivamente maiores, ~0,18s e ~8%, no AT do que no AF, (F(1,18)=11,98; p=0,003; F(1,18)=32,00; p≤0,001, respectivamente). Embora o comprimento da passada do AT seja reduzido, o maior tempo do MI parético suportando o peso do corpo no AT pode ser um indicador relevante na reabilitação motora.

Evaluation of cardiopulmonary fitness in individuals with hemiparesis after cerebrovascular accident

BACKGROUND

Due to the hemiparesis, the assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness on individuals after cerebrovascular accident (CVA), using exercise tests with conventional protocols, has become a challenge.

OBJECTIVE

Perform cardiopulmonary test (CPT) in hemiparetic patients to a pre-participation evaluation aimed at a careful prescription of aerobic exercise.

METHODS

The study included eight individuals with chronic hemiparesis who underwent CPT performed with individualized ramp protocol, developed from information on the gait speed of individuals previously evaluated in the track test. We considered the proposal of inclination ranging from 0 to 10.0%, initial speed corresponding to 70.0% of comfortable walking speed rhythm and 40.0% higher than the maximum speed on the track test, expecting that the CPT with this gradual and steady increase in intensity, lasted from 6 to 8 minutes.

RESULTS

In 100.0% of the sample, the reason for discontinuation was peripheral fatigue. The peak VO2 achieved was 20.6 ± 5.7 ml/kg.min. The threshold I was identified in all tests, standing at 82.64 ± 4.78% of peak HR and 73.31 ± 4.97% of peak VO2. The respiratory quotient (R) of the group was 0.96 ± 0.09, and three out of eight individuals (37.5%) reached R higher than 1.00, and the Threshold II was identified in these individuals. We found positive relationships between CPT variables and balance scores, performance in the 6-minute walking test and running speed on the ground.

CONCLUSION

The test proved to be useful for prescribing physical activity in these individuals.

Non-paretic lower limb constraint with a step decreases the asymmetry of vertical forces during sit-to-stand at two seat heights in subjects with hemiparesis

This study investigated the effects of non-paretic leg constraint by a step, combined with two different seat heights, on weight-bearing on the paretic leg and reduction of asymmetry during STS. Thirteen adult subjects (60.4 ± 5.7 years) were selected, with chronic hemiparesis (43.7 ± 50 months) due to stroke. Two force plates were used to analyze the vertical force (Fz) in the standing position and during STS. Individuals were instructed to rise from an instrumented bench at two seat heights, 100% (normal) and 130% (elevated) of knee height with four foot positions: (1) spontaneous (SPO); (2) symmetrical (SYM); (3) asymmetrical (ASY; non-paretic limb in front of paretic); and (4) step (STP; non-paretic limb supported on a step and paretic at ground level). A reduction of asymmetry occurred during STS movement when the non-paretic leg was constrained by a step compared with positions SPO (p<0.001), SYM (p<0.001) and ASY (p=0.02) at the normal seat level. Raising seat height to 130% increased asymmetry in the SPO condition (p=0.01); however, this effect was reversed in the ASY and STP conditions. Constraint of the non-paretic leg by a step is presented as a potential therapeutic route to a less asymmetrical STS. Together with a higher seat level this can benefit the training of individuals with hemiparesis unable to keep the paretic foot backward during STS from a standard seat height.

Treinamento de marcha, cardiorrespiratório e muscular após acidente vascular encefálico: estratégias, dosagens e desfechos

INTRODUÇÃO: Um número crescente de programas de treinamento com resultados positivos tem sido proposto para a reabilitação de pacientes com sequelas motoras após acidente vascular encefálico (AVE). No entanto, observa-se que muitos não oferecem recomendações no que diz respeito a indicações para técnicas e procedimentos específicos. OBJETIVO: Revisar a literatura pertinente sobre programas de treinamento envolvendo marcha, condicionamento cardiorrespiratório e fortalecimento muscular de membros inferiores em pacientes portadores de hemiparesia por sequela de AVE, e descrever a eficácia, limitações e efeitos desses programas na recuperação cardiovascular, funcional e motora dessa população. MÉTODO: Foi realizada uma busca por ensaios clínicos, trabalhos pré-experimentais, meta-análises e revisões de literatura que abordassem os temas treinamento físico, fortalecimento muscular, treinamento de marcha e programas de exercícios para membros inferiores após AVE. RESULTADOS: Foram encontrados 27 artigos relatando diversos protocolos de treinamento (marcha, treinamento cardiovascular, fortalecimento muscular, entre outros) e seus efeitos no sistema cardiovascular, músculo-esquelético e sobre o status funcional em indivíduos portadores de hemiparesia após AVE. CONCLUSÃO: Praticamente todas as intervenções relatam resultados positivos em termos de ganhos funcionais, além de efeitos específicos de acordo com o tipo de treinamento. No entanto, as diferenças metodológicas, a carência de grupo controle em alguns estudos, a variabilidade da população estudada e os critérios de análise nem sempre permitem a recomendação segura de procedimentos específicos na prática clínica.

Task-Specific Training With Trunk Restraint on Arm Recovery in Stroke

Background and Purpose— Task-specific training improves functional outcomes after stroke. However, gains may be accompanied by increases in movements compensating for motor impairments. We hypothesized that restriction of compensatory trunk movements may encourage recovery of premorbid movement patterns leading to better functional outcomes. The goal was to determine whether task-specific training with trunk-restraint (TR) produces greater improvements in arm impairment and function than training without TR in patients with chronic hemiparesis.

Methods— Double-blind randomized control trial of a therapist-supervised home program (3 times per week, 5 weeks) in 30 patients with chronic hemiparesis stratified by arm impairment level (Fugl-Meyer) was performed. Intervention group (TR group) received progressive object-related reach-to-grasp training with prevention of trunk movements. Control group (C) practiced tasks without TR. Main outcome measures were upper limb impairment (Fugl-Meyer Arm Section) and function (TEMPA) and movement kinematics (trunk displacement, elbow extension; Optotrak, 10 trials) of a reach-to-grasp movement. Evaluations were repeated before, immediately after, and 1 month postintervention by blind evaluators.

Results— TR training led to greater improvements in impairment and function compared with C. Improvements were accompanied by increased active joint range and were greater in initially more severe patients. In these patients, TR decreased trunk movement and increased elbow extension, whereas C had opposite effects (increased compensatory movements). In TR, changes in arm function were correlated with changes in arm and trunk kinematics.

Conclusions— Treatment should be tailored to arm impairment severity with particular attention to controlling excessive trunk movements if the goal is to improve arm movement quality and function.

Effect of trunk restraint on the recovery of reaching movements in hemiparetic patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Reaching movements made with the affected arm in hemiparetic patients are often accompanied by compensatory trunk or shoulder girdle movements, which extend the reach of the arm. We investigated the effects of the suppression of these compensatory movements on reaching ability in hemiparetic individuals.

METHODS

Eleven healthy and 11 hemiparetic individuals participated. Three-dimensional kinematic analysis was used to quantify reaches made to a close and a distant target (near the limit of arm's length). Unrestrained reaches were compared with those in which shoulder girdle and trunk movements were restrained by a harness.

RESULTS

During unrestrained reaching, abnormal trunk recruitment and limitations in elbow and shoulder movements were correlated with the degree of clinical stroke severity (r=-0.91 to -0.96) in hemiparetic patients. During trunk restraint, ranges of elbow and shoulder joint movement increased in both groups. In addition, elbow and shoulder interjoint coordination improved. This was caused by increases in the range of joint motion as well as by a better dynamic temporal relation between joints.

CONCLUSIONS

Trunk restraint allowed patients with hemiparetic stroke to make use of arm joint ranges that are present but not normally recruited during unrestrained arm-reaching tasks. Thus, the underlying "normal" patterns of movement coordination may not be entirely lost after stroke. Appropriate treatments, such as trunk restraint, may be effective in uncovering latent movement patterns to maximize arm recovery in hemiparetic patients.