Effect of Repetitive Functional Movements on Hand Dexterity and Grip Strength in Acute Stroke Patient: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Stroke frequently results in upper limb dysfunction, with up to 80% of patients experiencing reduced hand dexterity and grip strength, which limits their ability to perform daily activities. Repetitive and task-specific rehabilitation is known to stimulate neuroplasticity and promote motor recovery. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of repetitive functional movements on hand dexterity and grip strength in acute stroke patients.

Thirty-eight participants will be randomly allocated into two groups. The Control group will receive conventional physiotherapy including passive and active range of motion exercises, balance and coordination training, strengthening exercises, gait training with assistive devices, and gentle stretching or yoga-based mobility exercises. The Experimental group will receive the same conventional therapy along with a structured Repetitive Functional Movement Training protocol consisting of progressive phases focusing on facilitation, skill development, and functional integration. Exercises include finger individuation, grip–release, fine motor and object manipulation tasks, and functional activities such as bottle opening, zipper training, and towel wringing.

Intervention will be given six sessions per week for one week. Outcome measures will include the Box and Block Test, hand-held dynamometer,Barthel Index, and Fugl-Meyer Assessment. The study anticipates greater improvement in hand dexterity and grip strength in the experimental group compared to the control group.