A randomized controlled trial of modified constraint-induced movement therapy for elderly stroke survivors: changes in motor impairment, daily functioning, and quality of life.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the benefits of modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) on motor function, daily function, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in elderly stroke survivors.


METHODS
Two-group randomized controlled trial, with pretreatment and posttreatment measures.


METHODS
Rehabilitation clinics.


METHODS
Twenty-six elderly stroke patients (mean age, 72 y) with 0.5 to 31 months postonset of a first-ever cerebrovascular accident.


METHODS
Twenty-six patients received either mCIMT (restraint of the unaffected limb combined with intensive training of the affected limb) or traditional rehabilitation for a period of 3 weeks.


METHODS
Outcome measures included the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), FIM instrument, Motor Activity Log (MAL), and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS). The FMA evaluated the severity of motor impairment; the FIM instrument and MAL reported daily function; and the SIS detected HRQOL.


RESULTS
The mCIMT group exhibited significantly greater improvements in motor function, daily function, and the physical domain of HRQOL than the traditional rehabilitation group. Patients in the mCIMT group perceived significantly greater percent of recovery after treatment than patients in the traditional rehabilitation group.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest mCIMT is a promising intervention for improving motor function, daily function, and physical aspects of HRQOL in elderly patients with stroke. The mCIMT was well tolerated by the elderly patients even though it is a rigorous training program.
Wu
Ching-yi
CY
Graduate Institute of Clinical Behavioral Science and Department of Occupational Therapy, Chang Gung University, and Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-yuan, Taiwan.
Chen
Chia-ling
CL
Tsai
Wen-chung
WC
Lin
Keh-chung
KC
Chou
Shih-han
SH
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology; D011788:Quality of Life; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology; D012149:Restraint, Physical; D020521:Stroke / Q000503:physiopathology; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D016896:Treatment Outcome