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Research Article  |   May 2009
Long-Term Follow-Up After Constraint-Induced Therapy: A Case Report of a Chronic Stroke Survivor
Veronica T. Rowe; Sarah Blanton; Steven L. Wolf
Author Affiliations
  • Veronica T. Rowe, MS, OTR/L, at the time of this study was Project Coordinator, Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. She is Clinical Instructor, Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Central Arkansas, 201 Donaghey, 300, Conway, AR 72034; vrowe@uca.edu or thessingvr@aol.com
  • Sarah Blanton, DPT, NCS, is Assistant Professor in the Division of Physical Therapy, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta
  • Steven L. Wolf, PhD, PT, FAPTA, FAHA, is Professor in the Departments of Rehab Medicine and Medicine, and Associate Professor in the Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta
Article Information
Neurologic Conditions / Stroke / Rehabilitation, Disability, and Participation
Research Article   |   May 2009
Long-Term Follow-Up After Constraint-Induced Therapy: A Case Report of a Chronic Stroke Survivor
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May/June 2009, Vol. 63, 317-322. doi:10.5014/ajot.63.3.317
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May/June 2009, Vol. 63, 317-322. doi:10.5014/ajot.63.3.317
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Abstract

OBJECTIVE. Upper-extremity functional improvements after constraint-induced movement therapy have not been documented beyond 2 years. This case report describes the long-term maintenance of the effects of change 4–5 years after an application of constraint-induced therapy.

METHOD. A 36-year-old female poststroke patient participated in constraint-induced therapy for 2 weeks. She was evaluated before and after treatment and again 4 and 5 years later. Primary outcome measures included the Wolf Motor Function Test, Stroke Impact Scale, and Motor Activity Log.

RESULTS. Improvements were maintained in reported use and ability of the arm and hand, time to complete functional tasks, and physical aspects of health-related quality of life. Fatigue may have had a moderating effect on the extent of these changes.

CONCLUSION. Improved upper-extremity function continued over a 5-year period after constraint-induced therapy; however, poststroke fatigue remained an influential limiting factor.