This study aims to investigate the training benefits of modular 3D printed dynamic orthoses on upper limb function in stroke survivors.
This study is a randomized controlled intervention trial. Participants are recruited from two medical centers in Taiwan and undergo a continuous 6-week intervention for post-stroke movement rehabilitation. The control group receives traditional stroke occupational therapy rehabilitation. The experimental group, in addition to traditional treatment, supplements their therapy with the use of modular 3D printed dynamic orthoses developed by the research team for home training. Both groups undergo two effectiveness follow-up assessments, one month and two months after the intervention.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
80
Engaging in motion training at home with the use of dynamic orthoses.
Traditional post-stroke movement training arranged by an occupational therapist in a medical setting.
National Cheng Kung University
Tainan, Taiwan
RECRUITINGFugl-Meyer Assessment- Upper Extremity
The Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) is a specialized test designed for evaluating motor function in individuals post-stroke. It employs an ordinal scale to score 33 items related to upper limb movements, with a total score of 66 points. Each item reflects movements indicative of motor function in post-stroke hemiparetic patients, covering a range from proximal to distal joints. The FMA-UE has undergone extensive testing and has been found to possess excellent psychometric properties. It is considered an effective assessment tool for upper limb motor function, particularly suitable for chronic stroke patients with moderate to severe impairments.
Time frame: Pre-test(Week 0), post-test(Week 6), follow-up assessment（Week 10 & Week 14）
Box and Block Test
The Box and Block Test (BBT) is a tool used to assess manual dexterity, known for its short assessment time, simplicity, and ease of understanding. It exhibits excellent test-retest reliability (0.96) and inter-rater reliability (0.99). The test involves counting the number of cubes a person can move within one minute, with a higher quantity indicating better functionality. The size of the cubes is 2.5cm³, and there are a total of 150 cubes. Past research suggests a Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) value of 5.5 cubes for the BBT.
Time frame: Pre-test(Week 0), post-test(Week 6), follow-up assessment（Week 10 & Week 14）
Motor Activity Log
The Motor Activity Log (MAL) is a questionnaire-based assessment that evaluates the amount of use (AOU) and quality of movement (QOM) of the affected side in daily activities. The scoring for amount of use ranges from 0 (never using the affected hand in the activity) to 5 (always using the affected hand in the activity). Quality of movement is scored from 0 (unable to use the affected hand) to 5 (movement quality comparable to pre-stroke). There are a total of 28 items in the assessment, recording the average scores for both amount of use and movement quality for each item. Previous research has demonstrated good construct validity for this scale, with a Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) ranging from 1.0 to 1.1 points.
Time frame: Pre-test(Week 0), post-test(Week 6), follow-up assessment（Week 10 & Week 14）
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Modified Ashworth scale
The MAS (Modified Ashworth Scale) utilizes quick stretching to assess muscle tone, with testing conducted on the upper limb, specifically the hand, elbow, wrist, and fingers. For ease of statistical analysis, the scale is converted into numerical values ranging from 0 to 5, with lower scores indicating lower muscle tone.
Time frame: Pre-test(Week 0), post-test(Week 6), follow-up assessment（Week 10 & Week 14）
Upper limb joint range of motion
This study will use a goniometer to measure the upper limb joint range of motion in patients, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and fingers. The measurements encompass passive range of motion (PROM), active range of motion without wearing orthosis (AROM), and active-assisted range of motion with orthosis assistance (AAROM).
Time frame: Pre-test(Week 0), post-test(Week 6), follow-up assessment（Week 10 & Week 14）