Article

We compared the effectiveness of constraint-induced movement therapy
(CIMT) with bilateral treatment of equal intensity for chronic upper-extremity
(UE) dysfunction caused by cerebrovascular accident (CVA). DESIGN: We conducted a
2-group, randomized intervention trial with stratification by severity of UE
dysfunction. Twelve community-dwelling adults were provided with 6 hr of
occupational therapy for 10 days plus additional home practice. Six participants
wore a mitt on the unimpaired UE, and 6 participants were intrusively and
repetitively cued to use both UEs. The Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and the
Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) were administered before and
after treatment and at 6-mo follow-up. RESULTS: Significant improvements were
found in WMFT and COPM scores across time in both groups. No significant
between-group differences were found on the WMFT. CONCLUSION: High-intensity
occupational therapy using a CIMT or a bilateral approach can improve UE function
in people with chronic UE dysfunction after CVA. Treatment intensity rather than
restraint may be the critical therapeutic factor.

Langue : ANGLAIS