Upper Limb Function and Visuospatial Exploration After Stroke

Assessing Pathological Synergies of Upper Limb Function and the Relationship to Visuospatial Exploration After Stroke

This project is a cross-sectional, observational mono-center study with prospective data collecting.

This study aims to further explore quality of upper limb movement in relation to characteristics of visuospatial exploration in stroke subjects and healthy subjects by a applying comprehensive measurements of clinical scales and kinematic data in capacity- and performance-based activities. The results will contribute to assessing and monitoring quality of upper limb movements and visuospatial attention and their relationship.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subjects of 18 years and older with chronic ischemic stroke (> 6 month) restricted to one hemisphere (confirmed by CT/MRI)
• With impairments in upper limb function and at least partial ability to lift the arm against gravity, flex and extend the fingers
• Without relevant pre-existing limitations in arm and hand function (orthopaedic, muscular, neurologic)
• Written informed consent after participants's information

Exclusion Criteria:

• Increased muscle tone in the upper limb with limited rang of motion
• Severe sensory deficits in the upper limb
• Clinically significant concomitant disease (affecting the upper limb or impaired vision, e.g. due to glaucoma etc.)
• Contraindications on ethical grounds (vulnerable persons)
• Known or suspected non-compliance, drug or alcohol abuse
• Severe communication or cognitive deficits, that cause inability to follow the procedures