Mirror therapy and self-care autonomy after stroke: an intervention program

Abstract

Background: In patients with middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke, changes in upper limb function lead to dependence on others for self-care. In the process of re-covering autonomy/independence, there is evidence on the effectiveness of sensory stimulation techniques in the motor recovery after stroke. Objective: To assess the effect of mirror therapy on the self-care autonomy of patients with hemiplegia/hemi-paresis due to MCA stroke. Methodology: Cross-sectional and quasi-experimental study with a quantitative approach, a before-and-after design, and a non-equivalent control group. A non-probability sample of 30 participants was selected. Results: Gains in grip strength, joint range of motion, and manual dexterity of the upper limb were more significant in the experimental group but without statisti-cally significant differences between groups. Conclusion: Despite the more significant evolution of the experimental group, mirror therapy was not effec-tive in the motor recovery of the upper limb. Further studies are needed in this area using randomized de-signs, larger samples, and focused on self-care.