The Effects of Home-based Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program Group on Stroke.

The Effects of Home-based Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program Group on Stroke: the Randomized Controlled Trial.

Graded repetitive arm supplementary program (GRASP) is a self administrated, home-based rehabilitation program and has been incorporated in Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations. Past studies indicated that the home-based GRASP program could facilitate the motor function and motor recovery and prevent learned nonuse of affected upper limb of stroke patients. There is lacking of research and application of the home-based GRASP program in Taiwan. Therefore, this study aims to explore the effects of the home-based GRASP program, which is mainly executed in the form of group intervention, on the affected upper limb of stroke patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age is above 20 years old.
2. Onset of first stroke complicated with hemiplegia or hemiparesis.
3. The affected upper limb remains partially voluntary movements including lifting to chest level and holding for five seconds; slight flexion and extension of wrist and hand.
4. Understanding and complying with two-steps commands.
5. Understanding the content of trial and willing to sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Complicating with other neurological disease.
2. Having Orthopedic diseases affecting the movements of upper limbs.
3. Having symptoms of pain to affect the movements of upper limbs.
4. Unstable vital sign or medical condition.
5. Participating another rehabilitative or drug research meanwhile.
6. Receiving botulinum toxin injection within three months.