Effect of concise arm rehabilitation for stroke patients approach vs modified constraint-induced movement therapy on hand functions in post stroke hemiparetic subjects

Abstract

Strokes are highly prevalent worldwide, and survivors often face challenges in performing upper limb activities. Upper-limb hemiparesis occurs in nearly 80 % of stroke cases, making it the most common post-stroke impairment. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of the Concise Arm Rehabilitation for Stroke Patients (CARAS) approach with Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (M-CIMT) in enhancing hand function in individuals who have experienced a stroke. Convenience sampling was used to recruit sixty post-stroke hemiparetic participants, who were then randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group, which received the CARAS approach, and the control group, which received M-CIMT. At baseline, as well as in weeks four and eight, the interventions were evaluated. The Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), and a dynamometer were used to measure hand function, dexterity, grip strength, and pincer grasp, among other outcomes. According to preliminary findings, the CARAS group outperformed the M-CIMT group in terms of improvements in hand function and dexterity as assessed by ARAT and JTHFT. Additionally, the experimental group showed more notable improvements in pincer grasp and grip strength. Using outcome measures like the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test and Action Research Arm Test, the study uniquely evaluates CARAS, which emphasizes patient stratification and personalized goals, against M-CIMT. The findings could influence clinical practice by showcasing CARAS's potential benefits and offering new insights into effective rehabilitation strategies.