Article

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a home-based upper limb training program on
arm function in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Additionally, the effects
of this program on manual dexterity, handgrip strength, and finger prehension
force were analyzed. DESIGN: Randomized, single-blind controlled trial. SETTING:
Home based. PARTICIPANTS: Patients with a clinical diagnosis of MS acknowledging
impaired manual ability (N=37) were randomized into 2 groups. INTERVENTIONS:
Patients in the experimental group were included in a supervised home-based upper
limb training program for 8 weeks twice a week. Patients in the control group
received information in the form of a leaflet with a schedule of upper limb
exercise training. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome measure was arm
function (motor functioning assessed using the finger tapping test and a
functional measure, the Action Research Arm Test). The secondary outcome measures
were manual dexterity assessed with the Purdue Pegboard Test and handgrip
strength and finger prehension force evaluated with a handgrip and a pinch
dynamometer, respectively. RESULTS: After 8 weeks, a significant between-group
improvement (P<.05) was found on the Action Research Arm Test bilaterally and the
finger tapping test in the most affected upper limb. The secondary outcomes also
improved in the most affected limb in the experimental group. CONCLUSIONS: An
8-week home-based intervention program focused on upper limbs twice a week
improved arm function and physiologic variables with a primary focus on the more
affected extremity in patients with MS compared with the control group.
CI - Copyright A(c) 2016 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by
Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS