In the proposed study, the investigators assumed that mirror therapy combined with virtual reality technology will provide a better treatment effects than traditional mirror therapy for the patients with unilateral stroke. The aim of the study is to examine the difference in the treatment effects among the combination of task-oriented training with either virtual reality based mirror therapy, mirror therapy or traditional occupational therapy on the upper extremity function and brain activity of the stroke patients.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
134
Motor training targeted to goals that are relevant to the functional needs of the patient
National Cheng-Kung University Hospital
Tainan, Taiwan
Change in the result of Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) for motor function of upper extremity test
Each item is rated on a three-point ordinal scale (2 points for the detail being performed completely, 1 point for the detail being performed partially, and 0 for the detail not being performed). The maximum motor performance score is 66 points for the upper extremity.
Time frame: baseline, 6 weeks and 18 weeks
Change in the result of Modified Ashworth scale (MAS)
Muscle tone is defined by the resistance of a muscle being stretched without resistance. The MAS scores were distributed across the entire scale, ranging from 0 to 4, that is convenient for the clinician use. The grading of the scale is described as below: 0) no increase in muscle tone; 1) minimal resistance at the end of the range of motion; 1+) slight increase in muscle tone, manifested by a catch, followed by minimal resistance throughout the reminder (less than half) of the ROM; 2) more marked increase in tone but only after part is easily flexed; 3) considerable increase in tone; and 4) passive movement is difficult and affected part is rigid in flexion or extension.
Time frame: baseline, 6 weeks and 18 weeks
Change in the result of Box and blocks test
The score is the number of blocks carried from one box to the other in one minute. Higher values represent a better outcome.
Time frame: baseline, 6 weeks and 18 weeks
Change in the result of Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM) test
The Semmes-Weinstein monofilamenttest examines the cutaneous pressure threshold, range from 1.65-6.65. Higher values represent a worse outcome.
Time frame: baseline, 6 weeks and 18 weeks
Change in the result of Motor Activity Log
Semi-structured interview examine how much and how well the subject uses their more-affected arm for 30 ADLs. Score range from 0-180. Higher values represent a better outcome.
Time frame: baseline, 6 weeks and 18 weeks
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Change in Power Spectrum of the Electroencephalography (EEG)
Power spectrum is computed for the alpha (8-13 Hz) and beta (14-24 Hz) frequency bands. Higher values represent a better outcome.
Time frame: baseline and 6 weeks
Changes in Cortical Excitability Assessed by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Cortical silent period of to evaluate intercortical facilitation of brain. Lower values represent a better outcome.
Time frame: baseline and 6 weeks