Correlations between arm motor behavior and brain function following bilateral arm training after stroke: a systematic review

Pei Ling Choo*, Helen L. Gallagher, Jacqui Morris, Valerie M. Pomeroy, Frederike van Wijck

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

28 Citations (Scopus)
324 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background
Bilateral training (BT) of the upper limb (UL) might enhance recovery of arm function after stroke. To better understand the therapeutic potential of BT, this study aimed to determine the correlation between arm motor behavior and brain structure/function as a result of bilateral arm training poststroke.

Methods
A systematic review of quantitative studies of BT evaluating both UL motor behavior and neuroplasticity was conducted. Eleven electronic databases were searched. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed methodological quality, using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) tool.

Results
Eight studies comprising 164 participants met the inclusion criteria. Only two studies rated “strong” on the EPHPP tool. Considerable heterogeneity of participants, BT modes, comparator interventions and measures contraindicated pooled outcome analysis. Modes of BT included: in‐phase and anti‐phase; functional movements involving objects; and movements only. Movements were mechanically coupled, free, auditory‐cued, or self‐paced. The Fugl‐Meyer Assessment (UL section) was used in six of eight studies, however, different subsections were used by different studies. Neural correlates were measured using fMRI and TMS in three and five studies, respectively, using a wide variety of variables. Associations between changes in UL function and neural plasticity were inconsistent and only two studies reported a statistical correlation following BT.

Conclusions
No clear pattern of association between UL motor and neural response to BT was apparent from this review, indicating that the neural correlates of motor behavior response to BT after stroke remain unknown. To understand the full therapeutic potential of BT and its different modes, further investigation is required.
Original languageEnglish
Article numbere00411
Pages (from-to)1-25
Number of pages25
JournalBrain and Behavior
Volume5
Issue number12
Early online date26 Nov 2015
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2015

Keywords

  • bilateral training
  • imaging
  • rehabiliation
  • public health
  • stroke
  • upper limb

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