The Effects of Constraint-induced Therapy on Strength and Dexterity of Upper Extremity in Adult Hemiplegic Patients

Background and purpose: Functional disabilities due to stroke produce a wide range of problems in daily activities. Rehabilitation approaches focus on preventing and reducing contractures and deformities. But constraint-induced therapy focuses on improving the performance of hemiplegic patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of constraint-induced therapy on strength and dexterity in adults with hemiplegia. Materials and methods: The study population included 17 adult hemiplegics patients aged 50- 70 years. The mean age of the patients was 64.23 with RT side dominancy and the time passed from stroke was 6 months (mean time= 23.70 months). Informed consent was obtained from the patients. Abductor and extensor muscles isometric strengths were measured using MMT. Also, pinch and grip strength was measured by Pinch Gauge and Jamar dynamometer, respectively. In addition, dexterity was evaluated by Minnesota manual dexterity test. Results: Constraint-induced therapy showed significant improvement in the performance of pinch and grip strengths, abductor and extensor muscles isometric strengths and dexterity (P=0.000). Conclusion: Constraining the normal limb improves the performance of other affected limbs. This study suggests that constraint-induced movement therapy is of great benefit in increasing the isometric strength of shoulder extensor and abductor muscles, pinch and grip strength and dexterity. These improvements could consequently affect hand function in hemiplegic patients.