A follow-up study on the relationship among participation, activity and motor function in survivors of stroke following constraint-induced therapy

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this follow-up study was to examine the relationships among motor function, activity and participation following constraint-induced therapy (CIT). Methods: In this correlational study, 12 individuals who had previously participated in CIT completed the Fugl Meyer Assessment for the Upper Extremity and Wolf Motor Function Test (motor assessments), the Motor Activity Log (activity measure) and the Daily Experiences of Pleasure, Productivity and Restoration Profile (participation measure). Motor and activity changes over time were assessed using repeated measures ANOVA and Friedman’s tests. Spearman’s correlations were used to examine the associations between the participation measure and motor and activity measures were analyzed using Spearman’s correlations. Results: No statistically significant correlations were found among motor and activity scores and the amount of time spent in activity categories (e.g. self-care, leisure). Yet, moderate to strong correlations were found between motor assessments and time spent with others versus alone. Conclusion: The lack of significant correlations between motor, activity and participation measures challenges assumptions that improved motor abilities will translate to greater participation. Correlations found between motor and activity measures and the context of participation suggests participation post-stroke is complex, and survivors of stroke may benefit from rehabilitation practices that encompass more than motor therapy.Implications for RehabilitationParticipation post-stroke is complex and requires attention to issues beyond return of motor function, including engagement in activities with others.Rehabilitation practitioners should include interventions that address the context of participation.Inclusion of participation measures in constraint-induced therapy (CIT) may assist in assessing long-term outcomes for stroke survivors and understanding the relationship between motor function and participation.