Comparing Different Pressure Garments for Improving Arm Function and Quality of Life After Stroke in Adults

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of three types of pressure garments on upper extremity sensorimotor functions and quality of life in stroke patients. The study compares a dorsal-double-layered 10% circumferential reduction garment DD-10, a single-layered 10% circumferential reduction garment S-10, and a single-layered garment with no circumferential reduction S-0. These treatments are assessed over 8 weeks at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks to measure motor control, dexterity, muscle tone, pain, self-perceived function, and quality of life. Participants will wear custom-fabricated finger-to-above-elbow pressure garments according to their assigned group. During the first 4 weeks Phase IA, while hospitalized, they will wear the garment for 3 hours in the morning, 3 hours in the afternoon, and 8 hours at night daily, alongside 30-minute occupational therapy sessions five days per week. During the second 4 weeks Phase IB, after hospital discharge, participants will continue wearing the garment on the same schedule but will no longer attend occupational therapy sessions. Throughout the study, participants will be assessed using various measures including the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Modified Ashworth Scale, Visual Analogue Scale, Box and Block Test, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Outcome Measure, and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey at baseline, week 4, and week 8. The study is conducted with randomized assignment and triple blinding to evaluate outcomes related to sensorimotor function and quality of life in stroke survivors over the 8-week period.

Effects of Different Pressure Garments on Upper Extremity Sensorimotor Functions and Quality of Life After Stroke