Category: Stroke; Clinical Practice (assessment, diagnosis, treatment, knowledge translation/EBP, implementation science, program development)
Objective :
The aims of this study were: 1) to investigate the effect of the LE-CIMT on LE use and function with people with chronic stroke; and 2) to investigate the relationship between the motor and behavioral changes with participants` and caregivers ` perceptions about the protocol and the effect of the intervention.
Design : In this mixed methods study, assessments were administered during baseline, post-treatment and follow up phases. Qualitative data was collected through individual interviews with participants with stroke, and caregivers. Quantitative and qualitative data were merged.
Setting : Human Performance Laboratory at University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Participants (or Animals, Specimens, Cadavers) :
Eight individuals with chronic stroke and three caregivers were included in this study.
Interventions : The Lower Extremity Constraint-induced Movement Therapy (LE-CIMT) protocol includes intensive supervised training, shaping as a strategy for motor training and the application of the transfer package.The LE-CIMT was delivered for 10 weekdays, 3.5 daily hours of supervised treatment.
Main Outcome Measure(s) : The outcomes used in this study were the Lower-Extremity Motor Activity Log (LE-MAL), the 6-Minute walking test, 10-meters walking test, Berg Balance Scale, Lower-Extremity Motor Function Test, and Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior Questionnaire.
Results : Significant changes were observed on LE use, motor function, balance, gait speed and mobility comparing pre- and both post- and follow up assessments (p<0.05). Fear of falling changed significantly between pre- and follow up assessments. Participants identified benefits from the intervention that matched the quantitative results. The results were maintained 3 months after the treatment.
Conclusions : Significant changes on LE function were observed in this study. Participants` perceptions validated the quantitative results, confirming the changes in real life and acceptability of the intervention protocol.
Sarah dos Anjos
– Postodoctoral Fellow, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AlabamaDavid Morris
– Professor and Chair, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AlabamaElizabeth Barstow
– Associate Professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AlabamaChristopher Hurt
– Assistant Professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
Brooks Wingo
– Associate Professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
Victor Mark
– Associate Professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
Edward Taub
– Professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama