title: Loss of arm function after stroke: measurement, frequency, and recovery.
abstract: This study aims to establish the frequency of paralysis and other arm problems after stroke; the recovery of lost function; and to compare various tests of the affected arm. Thirteen per cent of the sample had no arm paralysis when first seen within 14 days. At 3 months 24 per cent of survivors had moderate or severe paralysis; 57 per cent could place nine pegs into holes within 50 seconds; 19 per cent had significant sensory disturbance; 5 per cent had shoulder pain; 8 per cent had restricted passive shoulder movement; and 17 per cent had some paralysis of the dominant arm. Between 3 and 6 months, improvement of motor power was seen in 40 per cent of patients, and 13 per cent of patients improved their function. Severity of initial paralysis was an important prognostic factor.
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003286:Contracture / Q000209:etiology; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006429:Hemiplegia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D011597:Psychomotor Performance