Effectiveness of ARM Ergometer on Spasticity and Motor Control in Sub-Acute and Chronic Stroke: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Background and Objectives: Stroke is the sudden death of cells in a limited part of brain caused by a reduced flow of blood to the brain. Objectives of present study were to assess the effectiveness of arm ergometry in improving range of motion of shoulder, elbow and wrist in sub-acute and chronic hemiplegics and to compare the effectiveness of arm ergometry with conventional therapy on spasticity and motor control.

Materials and Method: The present randomized controlled trial was conducted among 40 subjects with sub-acute and chronic stroke referred to Department of Physiotherapy, KLES Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belgaum. A written informed consent from study subjects and ethical clearance was obtained. Subjects were divided into two groups namely Group A which received cryotherapy, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (contract-relax, hold-relax) and neurodevelopmental techniques and Group B which received arm ergometer along with conventional treatment. Outcome was measured in terms of spasticity, range of motion and motor control.

Results: Subjects treated in experimental group showed better reduction in spasticity (p<0.05). There was no significant reduction in wrist flexor spasticity (p>0.05), patients who received conventional treatment who shown reduction in spasticity in elbow flexors only (p<0.05). There was significant improvement in range of motion and gross motor function in experimental group but, there was no change in fine motor function.

Conclusion: Conventional treatment along with arm ergometer treatment found to be effective in reducing spasticity and improving range of motion and motor control in sub-acute and chronic stroke patients.