A randomized efficacy and feasibility study of imagery in acute stroke.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the feasibility and efficacy of a programme combining imagery and occupational therapy with a programme of therapy only.


METHODS
Randomized, controlled case series.


METHODS
Subacute outpatient clinic.


METHODS
Thirteen consecutively admitted patients between four weeks and one year post stroke exhibiting stable motor deficits in their affected upper limbs.


METHODS
All patients received an hour of therapy three times a week for six weeks administered by the same physical and occupational therapists. During the same period, eight patients participated in 10-minute guided imagery sessions after each therapy session, as well as practising imagery at home twice each week. Five patients participated in a control intervention consisting of exposure to stroke information.


METHODS
The Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Motor Recovery (Fugl-Meyer) and Action Research Arm Test (ARA).


RESULTS
After intervention, Fugl-Meyer and ARA scores of patients in the therapy only group remained virtually the same; therapy plus imagery group scores improved by 13.8 and 16.4 points, respectively, on the Fugl-Meyer and ARA.


CONCLUSIONS
Imagery is a clinically feasible, cost-effective complement to therapy that may improve outcomes more than participation in therapy only.
Page
S J
SJ
Kessler Medical Rehabilitation Research and Education Corporation (KMRREC), West Orange, New Jersey 07052, USA. spage@kmrrec.org
Levine
P
P
Sisto
S
S
Johnston
M V
MV
D000368:Aged; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019018:Imagery, Psychotherapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020521:Stroke / Q000628:therapy*