Analysis of consolidation of manual functionality chronic hemiparetics after constraint-induced movement therapy.

Abstract

Several intervention methods are used for the rehabilitation of manual hemiparetics function, among which is Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT). The objective of this study was to investigate the possible consolidation of manual functionality after three months of completion of CIMT in post-stroke chronic hemiparesis. The study included 16 subjects, divided into intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). Members of the GI underwent CIMT, while the GC held the same functional training without contention. Subjects were assessed before, after and three months after intervention with standardized assessment tools: Motor Activity Log (MAL), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). Data were analyzed by ANOVA followed by post hoc Student - Newman - Keuls. The GI showed a significant increase in performance in MAL tests (p = 0.001), WMFT (p = 0.05) and AR-AT (p = 0.03) and there was no significant difference (p = 1) to the AV2 AV3 in GI in all tests, indicating increased spontaneous use, motor function and manual / digital dexterity that remained after three months of the completion of the protocol. The CIMT increased the manual functionality chronic hemiparesis and functional gains remained three months after completion of therapy.