Physical Therapy for the Paralyzed Superior Limb in a Patient with Postapoplectic Hemiplegia

-Focusing on the Evaluation of Sustained Elevation of the Paralyzed Superior Limb

Abstract

To evaluate of sustained elevation of a paralyzed superior limb, we performed physical therapy for the limb in a patient with postapoplectic hemiplegia. During the physical therapy, sustained elevation of the paralyzed superior limb was achieved by activating muscle groups in the lower trunk and gluteal region controlled by the corticoreticular spinal tract, and by accelerating continuation of associated righting reflex. These findings suggest that postural adjustment of the body center and proximal extremities is required in hemiplegic patients to achieve functional improvement of a paralyzed superior limb.