Effectiveness of Conventional Mirror Therapy on Functional Improvement of Upper Extremities in Patients with Stroke: A Prospective Interventional Study

Abstract

BackgroundStroke is the one of leading causes of death, and paralytic upper extremity (hemiparesis) is a common effect of stroke. The mirror therapy is considered to be an effective therapy to improve muscle strength of upper extremities and activity of daily living of patients with hemiparesis in stroke.ObjectiveTo assess the effectiveness of conventional mirror therapy on muscle strength and the activities of daily living in patients of stroke with hemiparesis.MethodologyUsing total enumeration sampling technique, a prospective interventional study was conducted on 40 patients of stroke receiving conventional mirror therapy in Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh from July to September 2019. Ethical clearance was obtained, and informed written consent was taken from patients. Data was collected by using interview schedule, which comprised of two parts, (a) socio demographic profile and (b) clinical profile, which were collected at the time of enrollment. Functional outcome, that is, muscle strength was assessed by using Wolf Motor Function Scale and Box and Block Test, and activities of daily living were assessed by using Functional Independent Measure at the time of enrolment (baseline). After enrollment of the patients mirror therapy demonstration, pamphlets were given to the patients and follow-ups were done on the first month and third month after interventions.ResultsThere was significant improvement in muscle strength based on Wolf Motor Function Scale (P < .001) and Box and Block Test (P < .001), and in activity of daily living based on Functional Independent Measure (P < .001) from baseline to third month after discharge.ConclusionConventional mirror therapy is one of the most effective therapies for improving the muscle strength and activity of daily living after stroke in case of hemiparesis.