Is modified constraint-induced movement therapy more effective than bimanual training in improving arm motor function in the subacute phase post stroke? A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) to bimanual task-related training for patients in the subacute phase post stroke.

DESIGN

A single-blinded randomized controlled trial.

SETTINGS

Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation clinics and the patient's home.

SUBJECTS

Thirty patients in the subacute phase post stroke (2-16 weeks) were randomized to modified constraint-induced movement therapy with an emphasis on unimanual tasks, or bimanual task-related training, emphasizing bimanual tasks. All trained with a therapist 4 hours a week for four weeks, followed by a 2-3 hours daily self-training program. Patients in the modified constraint-induced movement therapy group were supposed to wear a restraining mitt on the unaffected hand for 4 hours a day for four weeks.

MAIN MEASURES

Blinded assessments at pre and post treatment and after three months with Action Research Arm Test as a primary outcome measure, Nine-Hole Peg Test and Motor Activity Log.

RESULTS

Power calculations suggested an inclusion of 60 patients, but due to recruitment difficulties the trial was stopped after an interim analysis at 30 patients. There was no difference in change (P > 0.05) between the groups on any of the measures, neither at post treatment nor at follow-up assessments. From pre-intervention to follow-up assessment the modified constraint-induced movement therapy group obtained a mean change score of 17.77 (14.66) on Action Research Arm Test, the bimanual group 15.47 (13.59).

CONCLUSION

Bimanual training was as effective as modified constraint-induced movement therapy in improving arm motor function. Wearing a mitt seems unnecessary for most patients in the subacute phase post stroke when focused affected arm training is provided.