The Effect of Action Observation Training versus Motor Imagery Training to promote Upper limb function in Sub-Acute Stroke Subjects: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Renu Gurung; Dr. Priyanka Singh

Volume : VIII, Issue : XI, November - 2019

The Effect of Action Observation Training versus Motor Imagery Training to promote Upper limb function in Sub-Acute Stroke Subjects: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Renu Gurung, Dr. Priyanka Singh

Abstract :

Background and Objectives: The paretic upper limb is a common and undesirable consequence of stroke that increases activity limitation. In recent decades, many stroke rehabilitation methods have been developed. Action Observation Training (AOT) and Motor Imagery (MI) are two techniques which have proved its effectiveness in treatment of stroke subjects. The majority of evidence focuses on chronic stroke and supports its use at this stage of recovery. Although the studies are fewer in number, the evidence also supports MI as an effective intervention for the UE post stroke in the sub acute stage of recovery. Previous literature has also suggested for its comparison and best can be recommended for clinical practice. So, the aim of this study was to compare the effect of AOT and MI on upper extremity motor recovery and functional status in sub acute stroke subjects. Materials and methods: Total of 45 stroke subjects who is having minimal motor criterion and met other inclusion criteria were recruited from department of physiotherapy, central referral hospital. Subjects were randomized into two groups i.e. AOT (Group A) and MI (Group B). Pre and post intervention outcome measures were taken using Action research arm test, Fugl‑Meyer assessment test and Box and Block test. Result: At baseline subjects of both group showed no significant differences regarding ARAT, FMA–UE and BBT scores but after 3 weeks of intervention, subjects of both group showed statistically significant improvements in all the variables measured (p<0∙05). In this study had shown significant improvements in the AOT group when compared to the MI group. Conclusion: The present study confirms that AOT is an effective treatment technique to improve upper extremity motor recovery, hand manual dexterity and motor function in stroke subjects compare to MI. It is cost effective, easy and safe method for rehabilitation and most important can be easily administered at home by the subjects. Overall, clinicians will consider their stroke subjects stage of recovery and AOT protocol to implement for their particular practice setting, in the context of the evidence supporting.