The Influence of Associated Reactions on Upper Limb Performances Following Stroke

RECOVERY of movement following a stroke is often affected by increased reflex activity. Associated reactions are one manifestation of this activity. In early studies it is reported that associated reactions, elicited by semi-reflex activity or voluntary movement elsewhere, result in increased muscle tone and movement in the static, hemiparetic upper limb. In the physiotherapeutic treatment of stroke, importance is attached to the influence of reflex behaviour on the control of movement. Treatment.regimes differ, however, in their attitude towards the role of associated reactions in the recovery of motor control. Despite the fact that little is known about how associated reactions affect voluntary movement, the common practice is to assume that their influence is detrimental and thus FIONA LOUGH XlPhil MCSP