Article

The association between somatosensory impairments and outcome after
stroke remains unclear. The aim of this study was to systematically
review the available literature on the relationship between somatosensory
impairments in the upper limb and outcome after stroke. DATA SOURCES: The
electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and Web
of Science were systematically searched from inception until July 2013. STUDY
SELECTION: Studies were included if adult patients with stroke (minimum n=10)
were examined with reliable and valid measures of somatosensation in the upper
limb to investigate the relationship with upper limb impairment, activity, and
participation measures. Exclusion criteria included measures of somatosensation
involving an overall score for upper and lower limb outcome and articles
including only lower limb outcomes. DATA EXTRACTION: Eligibility assessment, data
extraction, and quality evaluation were completed by 2 independent reviewers. A
cutoff score of >/=65% of the maximal quality score was used for further
inclusion in this review. DATA SYNTHESIS: Six articles met all inclusion
criteria. Two-point discrimination was shown to be predictive for upper limb
dexterity, and somatosensory evoked potentials were shown to have predictive
value in upper limb motor recovery. Proprioception was significantly correlated
with perceived level of physical activity and social isolation and had some
predictive value in functional movements of the upper limb. Finally, the
combination of light touch and proprioception impairment was shown to be
significantly related to upper limb motor recovery as well as handicap situations
during activities of daily living. LIMITATIONS: Heterogeneity of the included
studies warrants caution when interpreting results. CONCLUSIONS: Large variation
in results was found due to heterogeneity of the studies. However, somatosensory
deficits were shown to have an important role in upper limb motor and functional
performance after stroke.
CI - (c) 2014 American Physical Therapy Association.

Langue : ANGLAIS