Comparison of task- and impairment-oriented approaches for upper limb function and usage behavior among patients with upper extremity paralysis after cerebral infarction in the recovery phase

Abstract

In our hospital, protocols differ between the Task-oriented approach (TOA) and Transfer package (TP), and the Impairment-oriented approach(IOA) and TP for paralyzed hands after stroke. 13 subjects participated in the study:7 in the TOA/TP group and 6 in the IOA/TP group. The upper extremity function (FMA) and the usage behavior of the paralyzed hand (MAL/AOU, QOM) were compared, and results indicated no significant change in FMA (p=0.18), but MAL changed significantly in the TOA group compared to the IOA group (MAL AOU:p = 0.04, MAL QOM:p ＜0.01). These results suggest that TOA could transfer the functions acquired in practice to life more efficiently even if the same TP is performed.