Home-based telerehabilitation shows improved upper limb function in adults with chronic stroke: A pilot study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This pilot study investigates the use of telerehabilitation to improve upper limb performance in chronic stages of stroke recovery. DESIGN: Intervention study with pre/post/one month follow-up tests. METHODS: Seven adults with chronic stroke participated in the study. Tests consisted of lab-based clinical and kinematic assessments. Participants completed the Upper Limb Training and Assessment (ULTrA) program at home. Training was 5 days/week, 60 min/day for 6 weeks with intermittent supervision of participants. RESULTS: Participants showed improvements in the training program tasks as well as clinical and kinematic assessments. Results also suggest there may be auxiliary benefits in cognitive function. CONCLUSIONS: A home-based telerehabilitation program is a viable approach to provide rehabilitation in chronic stages of stroke.