Implementation of Supportive Sling Device in Adults Post-stroke for Prevention of Shoulder Complications

Implementation of Supportive Sling Device in Adults Post-stroke for Prevention of Shoulder Complications

Upper limb (UL) impairment is a common deficit following stroke with only an estimated 20 per cent of patients recovering function.

Upper limb (UL) impairment is a common deficit following stroke with only an estimated 20 per cent of patients recovering function. Pain associated with UL impairment due to multifactorial causes is a frequent symptom in patients with stroke. Occupational therapy techniques focus on the implementation of positioning techniques and the use of supportive devices (SD) such as slings aimed to prevent pain; therefore increase daily function, participation and hence quality of life. At present, positioning principles of the hemiplegic shoulder exist in clinical practice. These are aimed at prevention of pain associated with UL Impairment; however there is no clear consensus among professionals of particular SD that should be implemented for adults with stroke

Inclusion Criteria:

• Having suffered in the last 6 months maximum a first stroke responsible for hemiplegia.
• Finding a clinical 5mm appendix, or with shoulder pain requiring prescription a scarf.
• Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination (BDAE) > 3.
• Consent of the patient
• Patient affiliated or benefiting from a social security scheme

Exclusion Criteria:

• Stroke recurrence, or stroke more than 6 months-old
• Patient already wearing a coaptation scarf
• Presence of lymphoedema, venous thrombosis of the upper limb
• Neoprene allergy
• Severe cognitive impairment: Mini-Mental State (MMS) <15
• Patient being part of another care protocol
• Adult under the protection of justice, tutors or curators
• Pregnant or lactating woman.