The effects of electronic music‐making as a therapeutic activity for improving upper extremity active range of motion

Abstract

AbstractThe use of occupation to enhance function has been the major principle of the occupational therapy profession. Literature shows that added‐purpose occupations elicit better sensorimotor performance than single‐purpose and rote exercise conditions. Added‐purpose conditions also enhance the motivation and the participation level of individuals. This study examined music‐making activity as a form of occupational embedded exercise to evaluate its effect on improving active shoulder flexion and elbow extension in individuals with hemiplegia. A pre‐test–post‐test control group design involving 10 participants each in experimental and control groups was used. Results showed no statistically significant improvements in shoulder flexion and elbow extension between the experimental and control groups. However, the intervention showed clinical significance in the form of a considerable increase in active shoulder and elbow range in the experimental group. The small sample size and lack of data on control group participants' degree of immobility and other activities might have influenced the study results. Further studies evaluating activities of daily living, work and leisure occupations and their effect on various sensorimotor components are recommended. Also, a larger sample could reduce the probability of a type II error. The results of this study support the occupational therapy principle of preventing disability, improving human performance and maintaining health through meaningful occupation. It also adds accountability to our services by way of showing the efficacy of our treatment. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.