Effects of shoulder strapping in patients with stroke: A randomised control trial.

Nicolette Comley-White,Eustasius Musenge,Witness Mudzi

doi:10.4102/sajp.v74i1.430

Nicolette Comley-White, Eustasius Musenge + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.4102/sajp.v74i1.430

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Abstract

BackgroundDisability post stroke remains a global problem, with upper limb involvement playing a key role. Shoulder strapping is one of the techniques used clinically to address this.ObjectivesTo compare the effect of two shoulder strapping techniques in patients with stroke.MethodA longitudinal randomised controlled trial included baseline, weeks one, two and six assessments of 56 participants with upper limb hemiplegia. The participants were assessed for shoulder subluxation, shoulder pain, upper limb motor function and muscle tone. They were randomised into control, longitudinal strapping or circumferential strapping groups.ResultsLongitudinal strapping had a non-significant decrease in shoulder subluxation and pain (p > 0.05). Circumferential strapping had no significant effect on any outcomes; however, it prevented the shoulder pain from worsening as much as in the control group (p > 0.05). General improvement in upper limb motor function was observed for all three groups.ConclusionTrends in improvement showed that longitudinal strapping could be recommended because it positively influenced shoulder subluxation and pain. Even without significant changes, strapping creates awareness of the limb in patients and caregivers and could be of clinical benefit.Clinical implicationLongitudinal strapping of the shoulder in patients with stroke seems to positively influence shoulder subluxation and pain.

Highlights

BackgroundStroke continues to be a major health problem world over
Upper limb problems post-stroke are related to changes in motor function, shoulder subluxation, muscle tone and shoulder pain
The incidence of shoulder pain post stroke varies from 17% to 87% (Aras et al 2004; Barlak et al 2009; Gamble et al 2002; Lindgren et al 2007; Ratnasabapathy et al 2003; Suethanapornkul et al 2008)

Summary

Introduction

BackgroundStroke continues to be a major health problem world over. Disability post stroke is a common problem affecting functional ability (Brault et al 2009; Hankey et al 2007). A key factor in post-stroke disability is the involvement of the upper limb. Post stroke shoulder pain has been shown to be a contributor to increased hospital length of stay; to negatively affect functional outcomes of patients at discharge from hospital; to restrict ADLs and home ambulation; to reduced quality of life and increased depression (Barlak et al 2009; Chae et al 2007; Gamble et al 2002; Lindgren et al 2007; Roy et al 1995). Disability post stroke remains a global problem, with upper limb involvement playing a key role.

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