Cognitive status does not predict motor gain from post stroke constraint-induced movement therapy

Abstract

Background: Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) is an evidence-based rehabilitation intervention for stroke. Several factors influence the motor gain from CIMT, including age and level of impairment. However, it is currently unknown to what extent cognitive status affects motor gain during CIMT.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate whether cognitive and emotional status affects motor improvement during two weeks of CIMT and retention of the gain at three months follow-up.

Methods: Twenty stroke patients (3-12 months post stroke) completed two weeks of CIMT. Motor performance was measured using the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT). Cognitive and emotional status was measured with a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery and a questionnaire on emotional status. All measures were performed at baseline, after two weeks of training, and at three months follow-up.

Results: We found no significant correlation between cognitive or emotional measures at baseline and improvement in motor performance post training. Also, cognitive and emotional status did not correlate with motor retention at three months follow-up.

Conclusions: We found no evidence to support that cognitive performance in stroke patients can predict motor gain from CIMT.

Keywords: Constraint-induced movement therapy; cognition; neuropsychological assessment; rehabilitation; stroke; upper extremity.