The effect of integrative rehabilitation treatment on upper extremity ability of patients with central nervous system injury

Purpose: The aim of this study was to test and develop a rehabilitation treatment protocol that maximizes the improvement of upper limb. In addition, this study was conducted to present a basic protocol for an integrative rehabilitation treatment method.
Methods: Patients diagnosed with stroke and exhibiting movement disorders in paralyzed limbs were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, and taping therapy. The control group received general exercise therapy and functional electrical stimulation. The treatment program for each group was conducted two times a week for four weeks, and exercise was performed for 60 minutes per session.
Results: There were statistically significant differences in the grip power with muscular strength of the shoulder joint flexor, extensor, adductor and abductor muscles before and after treatment in the experimental group and control group.
Conclusion: In conclusion, in order to improve upper extremity ability, a treatment method that can be applied at the same time and a method for managing the cause of the patient's limitations must be applied together.