Article

The majority of stroke patients experience upper limb motor impairment
and reduced ability to perform basic activities. Shoulder strapping has been
reported as a beneficial adjunct to rehabilitation therapies but has not been
rigorously trialled. This study tested the feasibility of recruitment,
intervention and outcome assessment protocols for future trial of the clinical
effectiveness of shoulder strapping. DESIGN :
Feasibility study using
a randomized controlled trial in an East London stroke service. SUBJECTS:
Fourteen acute stroke patients with mild to moderate upper limb hemiparesis were
recruited between October 2004 and July 2005. Intervention: Five strapping
methods and criteria for use were identified from the literature. Shoulder
strapping applied for one month in addition to routine rehabilitation was
compared to routine rehabilitation only. MAIN MEASURES: The Motor Assessment
Scale, Fugl Meyer Scale - Arm section and the Nine Hole Peg Test were measured at
baseline and 1, 2, 3 and 5 weeks later. The Stroke-specific Quality of Life
questionnaire was delivered at 6 and 12 weeks post stroke. RESULTS: Useful
findings were demonstrated in relation to the feasibility of all elements of the
protocol. Motor Assessment Scale findings showed a small-moderate (0.27) effect
size for the strapping intervention used as an adjunct to routine rehabilitation
compared to routine rehabilitation alone. Sample size calculation indicated 312
participants would be adequate to test a null hypothesis of nil benefit
additional to routine rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: Findings supported the value of
pilot-testing, and enabled revision of the study protocol for future definitive
trial.

Langue : ANGLAIS