Can training the less-impaired arm help stroke survivors?

Yes, research indicates that training the less-impaired arm can significantly improve everyday hand function for stroke survivors.

Is training the less-impaired arm more effective than traditional stroke rehab?

Studies suggest that training the less-impaired arm can be more effective than focusing solely on the most impaired limb for improving hand function.

How long do the benefits of training the less-impaired arm last?

The improvements in hand function gained from training the less-impaired arm have been observed to persist for at least six months after the training period concludes.

Home / Health / New Stroke Rehab Strategy: Train the Less-Impaired Arm

New Stroke Rehab Strategy: Train the Less-Impaired Arm

3 Feb

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Summary

Training the less-impaired arm can improve hand function after stroke.
This method proved more effective than focusing solely on the most impaired arm.
Improvements in hand function persisted for six months post-training.

New Stroke Rehab Strategy: Train the Less-Impaired Arm

Stroke survivors often experience lasting difficulties with arm function, impacting their ability to perform daily tasks.

Traditionally, rehabilitation focused on the most impaired arm. However, recent research published in JAMA Neurology reveals that training the less-impaired arm can lead to substantial improvements in hand function. This approach has shown promise, even surpassing the effectiveness of focusing solely on the more severely affected limb.

In a clinical trial involving over 50 patients, participants who trained their less-impaired arm demonstrated increased speed and efficiency in everyday activities. These gains were maintained for six months post-training, suggesting a lasting positive impact on independence and quality of life.