Sensory interventions on motor function, activities of daily living, and spasticity of the upper limb in people with stroke: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract Study Design This is a single-blinded clinical trial study. Clinical Trial Number registry: IRCT201610223551N4. Introduction Stroke is the second cause of death around the world. Motor and sensory problems are common complications of the stroke. These defects in the upper limb cause reduced use of the affected limb and consequently a decrease in the quality of life. Purpose of the Study The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of exteroceptive and proprioceptive stimulations on motor function, spasticity of the upper limb, and activities of daily living in people who have had stroke. Methods Sixty people with chronic stroke selected by convenience sampling. Before the intervention, Modified Ashworth Scale, Fugl-Meyer assessment of Motor Recovery after Stroke, and Barthel Index were measured and then the intervention phase was started. Exteroceptive and proprioceptive sensory stimulations were performed for 6 weeks. Independent t-test was used to compare groups. Results The intervention group made improvement in motor function (P = .0001, Cohen's d = 2.14), activities of daily living of upper limb (P = .0001, Cohen's d = 1.32), and spasticity (P = .002, Cohen's d = −0.94). Discussion Motor function and activities of daily living and spasticity of the upper limb can be improved through exteroceptive and proprioceptive stimulations. In this study, this type of intervention had the most impact on motor function compared with the rest. Conclusion Exteroceptive and proprioceptive stimulations in upper limb can be used in chronic phase of stroke. Improvement in motor function and activities of daily living and reducing spasticity are the results of these stimulations.