Effects of Exer gaming on upper extremity function and activities of daily living in Sub-Acute Stroke patient (Randomized Controlled Trial)

Abstract

Background: Stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) can be defined as the quick loss of brain function caused by the alteration in circulation of blood to brain which may be ischemic or hemorrhagic.

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of exergaming compared to conventional treatment on upper extremity function and activities of daily life in sub-acute stroke patients.

Methods: Study with ethical approval REC/RCRS/20/2032 was conducted at Services Hospital Lahore. On the basis of diagnoses of left and right sided ischemic or hemorrhagic first strokes, with age from 45 to 65, at least six months and more than one month post-stroke, and cumulative Mini Mental State Examination scores of 19 or higher (MMSE) criteria 32 subjects were recruited and were allocated to Group A and B. Fugal Meyer Assessment (Upper Extremity) (FMA-UE) and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) Version 3.0 were used to assess upper extremity motor function and activities of daily living (ADLs). Group A received Exer game therapy and Group B received conventional treatment. The patient received sessions five times a week, 30 minutes/ day for one month. Outcomes were evaluated at Pretreatment, four weeks and eight weeks interval.

Results: Results show that patients belonging to both Exer gaming group and conventional group showed improvement. When comparing the two groups’ upper extremity motor function and daily living activities, there was a statistically significant difference found (p value < 0.05).

Conclusion: It is concluded that Exer gaming was more effective as compared to the conventional treatment improving level of function in upper limbs and activities of everyday living

Clinical Trial Number: NCT04750746