Journal
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY INTERNATIONAL
Volume 23, Issue 2, Pages 165-174Publisher
WILEY-HINDAWI
DOI: 10.1002/oti.1421
Keywords
electromyogram-triggered neuromuscular stimulation; task-oriented training; stroke; upper extremity; occupational therapy
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The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of electromyogram-triggered neuromuscular stimulation (EMG-stim) combined with task-oriented training (TOT) on upper extremity function in chronic stroke patients. Twenty chronic stroke patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention (n=10) or control (n=10) group. The intervention group conducted TOT with EMG-stim on the wrist and finger extensor of the affected arm for 30minutes per day, 5days per week, for 4weeks. The control group was provided EMG-stim for 20minutes per day for the same duration. The intervention group exhibited significant improvement relative to the control group in muscle activation, motor recovery (Fugl-Meyer assessment) and dexterity (Box and Block Test) (p<0.05). Significant differences in hand function between the groups were detected in the writing of short sentences and in stacking checkers (p<0.05). It is concluded that EMG-stim in combination with TOT may be better than EMG-stim alone for the treatment of arm paresis in stroke patients. Further research with a larger sample is recommended to examine neurologic changes or cerebral cortex reorganization. Copyright (c) 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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