Effectiveness of Combined Motor cognitive dual task training and mirror therapy on upper limb function, ADLs, Quality of life in patients with chronic stroke

Introduction- Stroke is a neurologic disease which occurs due to reduced blood supply to the brain. Stroke is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity throughout the world. More than 65% of patients, 40% will never recover their upper extremity function. First few months after stroke is considered golden period due to heightened neuroplasticity. But even after this period neural plasticity can be stimulated through the use of dual task training and mirror therapy. Chronic stroke is defined as stroke which occurred 6 months ago. Objective of this study will be to identify the effect of dual task training and mirror therapy on upper limb function, activities of daily living and quality of life in patients with chronic stroke. Hypothesis of our study is that combined dual task training and mirror therapy will be produced significant result on upper limb function, ADL’s and Quality of life in patients with chronic stroke.

Methods- Sample size of this study was calculated using G power Software. 17 participants will be enrolled this study according to the selection criteria. Upper limb function, activities of daily living and quality of life will be assessed at baseline and after 2 weeks of intervention using Fugl Meyer Upper extremity scale, Modified Barthel index and stroke specific quality of life index. Intervention will be provided 6 days/week for 60 minutes. 20 minutes for dual task training, 20 minutes for mirror therapy and 20 minutes for conventional physiotherapy which will include neurodevelopmental therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises. Data will be normalized and presented in the form of descriptive statistics. Data will be analyzed using SPSS software and parametric test will be applied. P value less than 0.005 will be considered statistically significant. Then the results will be published.

Discussion- The results of this study will be provided significant insights into neurorehabilitation of stroke patients in chronic phase.