Article

The objective of this study is to examine the effect of gravity compensation
training on reaching and underlying changes in muscle activation. In this
clinical trial, eight chronic stroke patients with limited arm function received
18 sessions (30 min) of gravity-compensated reach training (during 6 weeks) in
combination with a rehabilitation game. Before and after training, unsupported
reach (assessing maximal distance, joint angles and muscle activity of eight
shoulder and elbow muscles) and the Fugl-Meyer assessment were compared. After
training, the maximal reach distance improved significantly by 3.5% of arm
length, together with increased elbow extension (+9.2 degrees ) and increased
elbow extensor activity (+68%). In some patients, a reduced cocontraction of
biceps and anterior deltoid was also involved, although this was not significant
on group level. Improvements in unsupported reach after gravity compensation
training in chronic stroke patients with mild to severe hemiparesis were mainly
accompanied by increased activation of prime movers at the elbow, although in
some patients, improved selective joint control may also have been involved.
Gravity compensation seems to be a suitable way to provide active, task-specific
treatment, without the need for high-tech devices. Further research on a larger
scale, including control groups and combinations of arm support with functional
hand training, is essential to enhance the potential of arm support to complement
poststroke arm rehabilitation.

Langue : ANGLAIS