Effectiveness of scapular stabilization exercise to improve upper limb function in stroke patients

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke is a global health-care problem that is common, serious, and disabling. In most countries, stroke is the second or third most common cause of death and one of the main causes of acquired adult disability. Upper-limb dysfunction following a stroke is common, with up to 70% of people experiencing paresis in their upper limbs. Stroke is one of the primary causes of impairment in the elderly population onset of recovery . Purpose: The purpose of this study to explore the effectiveness of scapular stabilization exercise to improve upper limb function in stroke patients. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of scapular stabilization exercise to improve the upper limb function in stroke patients. Methodology: This study was a randomized control trial quantative type of research which is single blinded . Total 40 patients were taken in this research on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria and divied into 2 groups. One group is control group and other group is experimental group.Each group has 20 patients. Both group were taken 12 sessions in 8 weeks.Control group were taken conventional physiotherapy and experimental group were taken scapular stabilization exercise with conventional physiotherapy. All subjects were evaluated by action arm research test, Barthel index scale and goniometer which tools measures the range of motion. Results: The findings of this study were carried out by independent t test and paired t test.Mean age of experimental group was 51.30 and the control group is 50.50.Gender distribution of this study were male 77% and female 23%. In range of motion maximum movement had improved and significant level is <005. In action arm research test grasp, grip, pinch and gross motor also significant and improve the upper limb function and also improve the Barthel index and p <0.05. Discussion: Song et al. conduct a study and suggest that scapular stabilization exercise can improve the function of the paretic upper extremity of individuals with chronic stroke. However, scapular stabilization exercise did not affect basic daily activities. Conclusion : This study concluded that scapular stabilization exercise improve the upper limb function, activity of daily living and range of motion. Small sample size and time duration is limited.Futher research should be done with enough time with large sample size.