Article

This study investigated the immediate effects of repetitive
neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)-assisted grasp-and-release activities
on the hand of patients with tetraplegia.METHOD. Three participants with C-5-C-6
tetraplegia underwent grasp training with sequential application of NMES to wrist
extensors, finger flexors, and finger extensors to assist participants in
grasping and then releasing balls. Before the intervention, participants were
assessed with the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test and the Box and Block Test.
They were evaluated with the same measures after the first and eighth sessions of
intervention. Participants participated in eight 30-min sessions over 14
days.RESULTS. Within-participant improvements in performance were observed in all
outcome measures. Subtests of the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test requiring
grasping function showed the greatest improvements. Participants reported
reduction of spasticity and more effective grasp.CONCLUSION. NMES-assisted grasp
paired with repetitive task practice resulted in improved performance on
functional tests and subjectively improved hand function in the participants.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012 by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

Langue : ANGLAIS