Effect of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy on Functional Recovery of the Upper Limb in Hemiparetic Patients

Abstract

Background: Impaired upper-limb use is one of the most disabling consequences of hemiparesis, and
learned non use of the affected arm often limits functional recovery. Constraint-Induced Movement
Therapy (CIMT) restricts the use of the less-affected arm, thereby promoting intensive, task-oriented
use of the affected arm.
Objective: To compare the effectiveness of CIMT and conventional physiotherapy in restoring upper-
limb function in individuals with post-stroke hemiparesis.
Methods: This prospective, randomized, comparative two-arm study included 30 adults (40–70 years)
with post-stroke upper-limb motor impairment. Participants were allocated to Group A (CIMT, n = 15)
or Group B (conventional physiotherapy, n = 15). Group A received mitt restraint of the unaffected
arm along with repetitive task-based training of the affected arm, whereas Group B underwent range-
of-motion, strengthening, coordination, and functional exercises. Both groups received 30–45 minutes
of treatment per session, five times weekly for 6 weeks. Motor recovery and functional performance
were assessed at baseline and after 6 weeks using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity
(FMA-UE) and the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT).
Results: Both groups showed improvement; however, gains were significantly greater in the CIMT
group. Mean improvements in FMA-UE (+16.3) and ARAT (+16.7) scores were significantly higher
with CIMT (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: CIMT is more effective than conventional physiotherapy for enhancing upper-limb motor
recovery and functional performance, and represents a feasible task-oriented intervention for
individuals with post-stroke hemiparesis.