The Effect of Task-Oriented Training and Progressive Resisted Exercise on Upper Limb Function and Quality of Life in Chronic Stroke Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke is defined as a neurological deficit subjected to acute focal injury of the Central Nervous System (CNS) due to vascular cause. The cause may be several embracing cerebral infarctions. Stroke is the third leading cause of death and the most common cause of disability among adults. Many studies have shown that motor impairment is a common factor leading to disability in stroke survivors. Improving the deficient motor power and strategies will reduce motor disability (Task-oriented training is given mainly for improving Functional performance). Need for the Study: Studies have shown a significant effect on motor function post-stroke with several techniques like conventional exercise, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), and Brunnstorm techniques. The effect of the treatment was significant because the weak muscles were strengthened, and the tight muscles were relaxed. However, there is a scarcity in the literature related to the effect of task-oriented training on motor performance in subjects with chronic stroke. Hence this study is undertaken. Methods: The study was carried out in the OPD of the College of Physiotherapy- Dayananda Sagar University-Bangalore on a sample size of 40 subjects for 6 months. It was a randomised clinical trial where subjects were split into two groups with task-oriented training and Progressive Resisted Exercises (PRE). The therapy was 30 minutes/session for 5 days /week for 4 weeks. Results: Task-oriented training showed significant changes within the group from pre- and post-trial and between the group effects, thus demonstrating it to be more significant in enhancing motor performance compared to mere strengthening exercises. Conclusion: The current study demonstrates that task oriented training compared to Progressive Resisted Exercises (PRE) works efficiently in improving upper limb functions and quality of life. The improvement in motor performance varied but the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory and Stroke Impairment Scale showed quite significant improvement post-rehabilitation with task-oriented training compared to Progressive Resisted Exercise.