The use of a lycra sleeve to maximise hand function in people recovering from a stroke

Institution:
Department of Physiology, University College London
Principal Investigator:
Dr Margaret Mayston
Region: London
Grant value: £56,798.46 over 24 months
Start date: January 2005
Status: complete

Less than 50 per cent of people regain the full use of their hand following a stroke. The arm may be weak, stiff and have less feeling, making it more difficult to use. Standard therapy addresses these problems. A simple lycra sleeve on the arm affected by stroke may improve the alignment of muscles, strengthen weak muscles by providing resistance and improve sensory awareness. The sleeve aims to mirror standard therapy which attempts to address these problems, helping the patient to use their arm in everyday life.

This study, which examined 60 stroke patients over two years, investigates three groups randomly allocated to therapy only, non-lycra sleeve, or lycra sleeve for six weeks. All the groups will continue having the usual therapy as well. Stroke patients currently report increases in arm recovery after wearing the sleeve. Measurement of function and movement characteristics, before, during and after the treatment will show whether this is the case, and will lead to more effective treatment in the future.

Scientific Title: The use of dynamic lycra orthoses to maximise hand function in people recovering from a stroke

Classification:
Rehabilitation, Neurorehabilitation