Objective/Background To compare the effects of simple and task-oriented mirror therapies on upper extremity function in stroke patients with hemiplegia. Methods A single-subject, reversal (applied behaviour analysis) research design was used, and the study included four patients and two treatments. Treatment 1 involved simple mirror therapy that was performed using simple upper limb movements. Treatment 2 involved task-oriented mirror therapy that required each patient to perform functional movements associated with the tasks of daily living. Changes in upper extremity function were assessed during 23 sessions using box and block test, cube carry, and card turning tests. The Fugl-Meyer Assessment of upper extremity function was also performed. Results The upper extremity function of all patients increased after mirror therapy. However, the improved upper extremity function of the patients undergoing simple mirror therapy was not maintained after the conclusion of the therapy. By contrast, the improved upper extremity function of the patients receiving task-oriented mirror therapy continued to improve, even after therapy cessation. Conclusion Task-oriented mirror therapy in stroke patients provided more effective improvement in the upper extremity function of the hemiplegic stroke victims.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of self-exercise on oropharyngeal swallowing function in patients with dysphagia. [Subjects and Methods] Nine patients with dysphagia after stroke were recruited. Self-exercise including effortful swallowing, tongue strengthening, and shaker exercise was performed 5 times a week for 4 weeks. Swallowing function was evaluated using the videofluoroscopic dysphagia scale (VDS) based on a videofluoroscopic swallowing study. [Results] There were significant differences in both the oral and pharyngeal phases of the VDS before and after the intervention. [Conclusion] This study demonstrated that bedside self-exercise is a positive method to improve oropharyngeal swallowing function in patients with dysphagia after stroke.

[Purpose] This study investigated the effects of mirror therapy and neuromuscular electrical stimulation on upper extremity function in stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] This study recruited 8 stroke patients. All patients were treated with mirror therapy and neuromuscular electrical stimulation five times per week for 4 weeks. Upper limb function evaluation was performed using upper extremity part of fugl meyer assessment. [Results] Before and after intervention, fugl meyer assessment showed significant improvement. [Conclusion] In this study, mirror therapy and neuromuscular electrical stimulation are effective methods for upper extremity function recovery in stroke patients.

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