Influence of task-oriented circuit training on upper limb function among rural community-dwelling survivors of stroke

Abstract

Background Task-oriented circuit training using a Multi-Activities workstation emphasises goal-oriented tasks practiced in a circuit or series in order to learn a new skill. It can be used for upper limb rehabilitation among stroke patients in a community setting, but there is currently very little evidence available regarding its use in this patient group and setting. This study aimed to explore the influence of task-oriented circuit training using a Multi-Activities workstation on upper limb function among community-dwelling individuals with chronic stroke. Methods A pre-test–post-test study was conducted involving 17 community-dwelling individuals with chronic stroke who were attending a stroke rehabilitation centre. Six weeks of task-oriented circuit training was given using a Multi-Activities workstation aimed to improve strength, range of motion and dexterity. Streamlined Wolf Motor Function Test and Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory were used to measure outcomes. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for data analysis. Results A total of 12 sessions of task-oriented circuit training using Multi-Activities workstations did not result in any statistically significant differences in outcome measures. Conclusions Task-oriented circuit training using the Multi-Activities workstation did not improve upper limb function in community-dwelling individuals with chronic stroke.

Effects of Circuit Class Training Versus Individual, Task Specific Training on Upper Extremity Function in Chronic Stroke Patients

“…Such efforts would enhance our understanding of the long-term impacts of these interventions, offering deeper insights into the persistence of therapeutic gains and the potential need for ongoing or booster interventions to sustain improvements in spasticity, motor function, and quality of life. Additionally, exploring patient-specific factors that may influence the effectiveness of CCT and ITST could further refine stroke rehabilitation practices, ensuring that interventions are optimally matched to patient profiles for enhanced recovery trajectories (8,19).…”

“…The occurrence of ischemic strokes, the predominant type, is characterized by the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot, inhibiting the flow of blood to the brain (6,7). Conversely, hemorrhagic strokes result from bleeding that damages the cells surrounding the brain (8)(9)(10).…”