Effect of Constraint- Induced Movement Therapy and Mirror Box Therapy for Fine Motor Function in Stroke Patients – A Feasibility Study

Abstract

Background: Stroke generally leads to substantial impairment of fine motor function, particularly in the upper limbs, impairing independence and quality of life. Mirror Box Therapy and Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) are two cutting-edge rehabilitation methods that use neuroplasticity to improve motor recovery. By limiting the unaffected side, CIMT encourages functional use of the affected limb, whereas Mirror Box Therapy uses visual feedback to encourage motor imagery and cortical reorganization. This study investigates the feasibility and combined effects of CIMT and Mirror Box Therapy in improving fine motor function in stroke patients.
Methods: The study was conducted with 20 participants of population in post MCA stroke patients aPrivateMedical College and hospital, Chennai using random sampling technique based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study was explained to the subjects and the written consent was obtained from the subjects. The participants were split into two groups, Group A- 10 and Group B- 10. Group A was treated with CIMT and task -oriented training. Group B was treated with mirror box therapy and task -oriented training. 
Conclusion-Cimt: Group showed substantial difference in improving fine motor activities in contrast to Mirror Box group, post-test values of CIMT group in Fugl Meyer Upper Extremity scale value where the p value is < 0.0001. The investigation finds that Constraint-induced movement therapy along with task -oriented training was effective in improving fine motor activities among the geriatric stroke patients.