Rehabilitation of hemispatial neglect in stroke

Abstract

Hemi-spatial neglect (HSN) is a debilitating post stroke cognitive deficit resulting in reduced attention to stimuli presented in the contra-lateral hemi-visual field.  It adversely impacts patient's medical recovery, activities of daily living and quality of life. Early referral to Rehabilitation Medicine specialist for thorough evaluation, prompt recognition of functional impairments and formulation of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan unique to patient is important. It is part of the comprehensive and holistic management of stroke patients with HSN. We summarize the current management strategies used for post-stroke HSN rehabilitation with the options including non-invasive brain stimulation, visuomotor feedback training, robotic rehabilitation and trans-dermal nicotine patch. Keywords: Hemispatial neglect, Stroke, Rehabilitation, Non-invasive brain stimulation, Robotic rehabilitation.