Article

The purpose of this study was to investigate the
influence of prolonged and repetitive passive range of motion (PROM) stretching
of the fingers on hand function in stroke survivors. PARTICIPANTS: Fifteen
chronic stroke survivors with moderate to severe hand impairment took part in the
study. METHOD: Participants underwent 3 experimental sessions consisting of 30
minutes of rest, prolonged, or repetitive stretching of the finger flexor muscles
by a powered glove orthosis (X-Glove). Outcome measures, comprised of 3 selected
tasks from the Graded Wolf Motor Function Test (GWMFT), grip strength, lateral
pinch strength, and grip relaxation time, were recorded at the start and end of
each session. Change in outcome score for each session was used for analysis.
RESULTS: Data suggested a trend for improvement following stretching, especially
for the repetitive PROM case. For one GWMFT task (lift washcloth), the effect of
stretching condition on performance time approached a statistical significance (P
= .015), with repetitive PROM stretching producing the greatest mean reduction.
Similarly, repetitive stretching led to a 12% +/- 16% increase in grip strength,
although this change was not statistically different across groups (P = .356);
and grip termination time was reduced, albeit non-significantly, by 66% +/- 133%.
CONCLUSION: Repetitive PROM stretching exhibited trends to be more effective than
prolonged stretching for improving hand motor control. Although the results were
highly variable and the effects are undoubtedly transient, an extended period of
repetitive PROM stretching may prove advantageous prior to hand therapy sessions
to maximize treatment.

Langue : ANGLAIS