The effects of the functional tone management (FTM) arm training program on upper extremity motor control on chronic post-stroke individuals

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of functional arm training with a FTM dynamic orthosis on upper extremity movment of chronic post-CVA survivors. The FTM was designed to allow stroke patients to quickly incorporate grasp and release function. Methods: Each subject was fitted for a FTM dynamic orthosis and received 5 days of therapeutic treatment and training, 6 hours per day. Treatment intervention consisted of repetitive, task oriented arm movements using the FTM dynamic orthosis, movement specific exercises using the Hemi-Glide™ exercise device, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation targeted to the wrist and finger extensors. Results: Data analysis using paired t-tests showed significant improvements in shoulder flexion, shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, elbow extension,and wrist extension. Additionally, all 3 qualitative assessment tools—the Fugl Meyer, the Motor Status Assessment, and the modified Ashworth—showed statistically significant improvements. Conclusion: The FTM dynamic orthosis used in combination with the prescribed UE exercise protocol increased mean values for shoulder flexion, shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, elbow extension, and wrist extension in a group of 13 adult post CVA participants.