Analysis of Laterality in Upper Limb Function during Simulated Range of Motion Limitation Using Long-term Portable Accelerometer Recordings

Abstract Background While short term effects on upper limb function of stroke patients after training with robotic devices have been studied extensively, long term effects are often not addressed. HoMEcare aRm rehabiLItatioN (MERLIN) is a combination of an unactuated training device using serious games and a telerehabilitation platform in the patient’s home situation. Short term effects showed that upper limb function improved after training with MERLIN. The aim was to determine long term effects on upper limb function and quality of life. Methods Six months after cessation of the 6 week MERLIN training program, the upper limb function and quality of life of 11 chronic stroke patients were assessed. Upper limb function was measured using the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) and Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE). EuroQoL-5D (EQ-5D) was used to measure quality of life. Results The WMFT, ARAT and EQ-5D did not show significant differences 6 months after the training period compared to directly after training. At 6 months follow-up, FMA-UE results were significantly better than at baseline. Time plots showed a decreasing trend in all tests. Conclusion Training effects were still present at 6 months follow-up, since arm function seemed similar to directly after training and FMA-UE results were better than at baseline. However, because of the decreasing trend shown in all tests, it is questionable if improvements will be maintained longer than 6 months. Due to the sample size and study design, results should be interpreted with caution. Trial registration This study is registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NL7535). Registered 18-02-2019, https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7535

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Measuring Range of Motion and Muscle Activation of Flower Arrangement Tasks and Application for Improving Upper Limb Function

Korean Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology ◽

10.7235/hort.2012.12071 ◽

2012 ◽

Vol 30 (4) ◽

pp. 449-462 ◽

Cited By ~ 4

Author(s):

Son-Sun Lee ◽

Sin-Ae Park ◽

Oh-Yun Kwon ◽

Jong-Eun Song ◽

Ki-Cheol Son

Keyword(s):

Range Of Motion ◽

Upper Limb ◽

Muscle Activation ◽

Measuring Range ◽

Limb Function ◽

Upper Limb Function

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The Combined Effect of Dynamic Splinting and Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Reducing Wrist and Elbow Contractures in Six Children with Cerebral Palsy

Prosthetics and Orthotics International ◽

10.3109/03093640903051808 ◽

2010 ◽

Vol 34 (1) ◽

pp. 10-19 ◽

Cited By ~ 10

Author(s):

Neil Postans ◽

Philip Wright ◽

Will Bromwich ◽

Ingrid Wilkinson ◽

Sybil E. Farmer ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Quality Of Life ◽

Cerebral Palsy ◽

Electrical Stimulation ◽

Range Of Motion ◽

Upper Limb ◽

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation ◽

Limb Function ◽

Upper Limb Function ◽

Dynamic Splinting

The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the feasibility of applying the combination of Dynamic splinting (DS) and Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in order to improve wrist and elbow function, and range of motion, in children with upper limb contractures due to Cerebral palsy (CP). Six children aged seven to 16, with contractures at the wrist or elbow, were recruited. Following a 12-week baseline period all participants underwent a 12-week treatment period where DS was used for one hour per day and combined with NMES for the second half of the 1-h treatment. A 12-week follow-up period then ensued. Upper limb function was assessed with the Melbourne assessment, physical disability with the Paediatric Evaluation of Disability Index and the Activity Scale for Kids, and quality of life with the Pediatric Quality of Life Scale. Passive and active range of motion at the wrist and elbow were measured using manual and electrical goniometers. The technique of using combined NMES and DS was demonstrated to be feasible and compliance with the intervention was good. There was an increase in passive elbow extension in two participants treated for elbow contractures, although no accompanying change in upper limb function was demonstrated. Wrist range of movement improved in one participant treated for wrist contracture.

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