A randomized controlled trial of constraint-induced movement therapy after stroke.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the benefits of constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) relative to traditional intervention equal in treatment intensity and use of restraint mitt outside rehabilitation on motor performance and daily functions in stroke patients.


METHODS
Two-group randomized controlled trial (RCT).


METHODS
Rehabilitation clinics.


METHODS
Twenty-two chronic stroke patients (mean time postonset of stroke = 18.9 months).


METHODS
The subjects were randomized to receive CIMT (restraint of the less affected limb combined with intensive training of the affected limb) or traditional intervention (control treatment) during the study. The treatment intensity was matched between the two groups (2h/d, 5d/wk for 3 wk). Both groups of patients received restraint of the less affected limb outside rehabilitation (ca. 3h/d).


METHODS
Motor performance was evaluated using the Fugl-Myer Assessment and the Motor Activity Log. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Functional Independence Measure and the Nottingham extended activities of daily living scale.


RESULTS
The CIMT group showed significantly greater improvements in motor performance, level of functional independence, and the mobility domain of extended activities of daily living.


CONCLUSIONS
This is the first RCT to show the benefits of CIMT, relative to control treatment equal in amount of therapy, in improving motor performance and some aspects of basic and extended activities of daily living.
Lin
K-C
KC
School of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Wu
C-Y
CY
Liu
J-S
JS
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D012149:Restraint, Physical / Q000379:methods*; D020521:Stroke / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome