A randomised controlled pilot study to investigate the effect of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on upper limb function and hand sensation following stroke

Burridge, J.H., Mann, G.E., Malone, L. and Taylor, P.N. (2002) A randomised controlled pilot study to investigate the effect of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on upper limb function and hand sensation following stroke. In 7th Annual Conference of the International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society. Proceedings. International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society. 243 - 245 .

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to compare the effect on upper limb function of cyclic neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the elbow, wrist and finger extensors with passive stretching exercises through a similar range of movement. Data collected and experience gained will be used to design a prospective, larger scale randomised controlled trial (RCT). Twenty-two individuals with hemiplegia as a result of a stroke during the previous twelve months were randomly allocated into stimulation (treatment) and passive stretching (control) groups. In the treatment group, stimulation was applied to triceps and wrist and finger extensors. Subjects in the control group were taught stretching exercises. Primary outcome measure was the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). Sensation was tested using two-point discrimination. Mean increase in ARAT score between 0 and 12weeks: treatment group (n=11) 17.5 points, control group (n=11) 4.6 points. Non-parametric tests (Mann Whitney U) showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups p=0.002 at 12 weeks. A significant difference in sensation scores was also identified between the two groups (P=0.034) at 12 weeks. No significant differences were identified in any of the outcome measures at 24 weeks

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Contributors

Author: J.H. Burridge

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