Is modified constraint-induced movement therapy more effective than bimanual training in improving arm motor function in the subacute phase post stroke? A randomized controlled trial

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Abstract
Objective: To compare the effect of modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) to bimanual task-related training for patients in the subacute phase post stroke. Design: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Settings: Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation clinics and the patient’s home. Subjects: Thirty patients in the subacute phase post stroke (2–16 weeks) were randomized to modified constraint-induced movement therapy with an emphasis on unimanual tasks, or bimanual task-related training, emphasizing bimanual tasks. All trained with a therapist 4 hours a week for four weeks, followed by a 2–3 hours daily self-training program. Patients in the modified constraint-induced movement therapy group were supposed to wear a restraining mitt on the unaffected hand for 4 hours a day for four weeks. Main measures: Blinded assessments at pre and post treatment and after three months with Action Research Arm Test as a primary outcome measure, Nine-Hole Peg Test and Motor Activity Log. Results: Power calculations suggested an inclusion of 60 patients, but due to recruitment difficulties the trial was stopped after an interim analysis at 30 patients. There was no difference in change ( P > 0.05) between the groups on any of the measures, neither at post treatment nor at follow-up assessments. From pre-intervention to follow-up assessment the modified constraint-induced movement therapy group obtained a mean change score of 17.77 (14.66) on Action Research Arm Test, the bimanual group 15.47 (13.59). Conclusion: Bimanual training was as effective as modified constraint-induced movement therapy in improving arm motor function. Wearing a mitt seems unnecessary for most patients in the subacute phase post stroke when focused affected arm training is provided.

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