Current Practices of Upper Limb Rehabilitation After Stroke

Current Practices of Upper Limb Rehabilitation After Stroke: a Survey Among Stroke Survivors and Therapists

A survey was conducted among physiotherapists and occupational therapists working with stroke patients. The survey consisted out of 30 questions enquiring personal information and upper limb specific topics divided in 3 sections: (1) Passive mobilization, (2) Active exercises and (3) Immobilization. The survey took approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

The survey for stroke survivors was divided in seven sections: (1) Personal information (2) Motor recovery of the upper limb and expectations on upper limb recovery; (3) Comfort, pain and quality of life (QoL); (4) Immobilization ; (5) Physiotherapy; (6) Occupational therapy; (7) Nursing (only for patients less than 6 months after stroke). The length to complete the survey was also organized to be achieved in 20 to 30 minutes.

Stroke patients

Inclusion Criteria:

• stroke with upper limb paresis

Exclusion Criteria:

• severe language or cognitive problems which make it impossible to complete the survey

Therapists

Inclusion Criteria:

• physiotherapists
• occupational therapists
• experienced in the treatment of stroke patients