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Published in: Trials 1/2024

Open Access 01-12-2024 | Stroke | Study protocol

Effects of task-based mirror therapy on upper limb motor function in hemiplegia: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial

Authors: Hongzhen Liu, Yangjie Xu, Wei Jiang, Fangchao Hu, Yi Zhou, Lu Pan, Feng Zhou, Ying Yin, Botao Tan

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2024

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Abstract

Background and purpose

Research to date has lacked definitive evidence to determine whether mirror therapy promotes the recovery of upper extremity function after stroke. Considering that previous studies did not stratify patients based on structural retention, this may be one of the reasons for the negative results obtained in many trials. The goal evaluates the efficacy of TBMT (utilizing an innovatively designed mirror) versus standard occupational therapy for stroke patient’s upper limb functionality.

Methods and analysis

This single-center randomized controlled trial will involve 50 patients with stroke. All patients will be randomly assigned to either the task-based mirror therapy or the control group. The interventions will be performed 5 days per week for 4 weeks. The primary outcomes will be the mean change in scores on both the FMA-UE and modified Barthel Index (MBI) from baseline to 4 weeks intervention and at 12 weeks follow-up between the two groups and within groups. The other outcomes will include the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), the Nine Hole Peg Test (9HPT), the Functional Independence Measure, and MRI.

Discussion

This trial will not only to establish that task-based mirror therapy (TBMT) could improve the recovery of hand function after stroke but also to explore the underlying mechanisms. We expect that this finding will clarify the brain activation and brain network mechanisms underlying the improvement of hand function with task-oriented mirror therapy and lead to new ideas for stroke hand function rehabilitation.

Trial registration

URL: https://​www.​chictr.​org.​cn; Unique identifier: ChiCTR2300068855. Registered on March 1, 2023
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Effects of task-based mirror therapy on upper limb motor function in hemiplegia: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors
Hongzhen Liu
Yangjie Xu
Wei Jiang
Fangchao Hu
Yi Zhou
Lu Pan
Feng Zhou
Ying Yin
Botao Tan
Publication date
01-12-2024
Publisher
BioMed Central
Keyword
Stroke
Published in
Trials / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-024-08081-1

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