Relations between Sensory and Motor Functions in Hemiplegic Upper Extremities Hemiplegia in Chronic Stroke Patients

Abstract

Background & Objectives: Sensory deficits are common in stroke. These deficits can decrease quality of upper limb movements and result in impairments in manipulative skills and fine motor activities. In spite of the fact that skilled movements and independent function correlate closely with the ability of perception and discrimination of various sensory inputs, and full motor potential of sensory impaired limbs cannot be used, these deficits rarely addressed in stroke patients. The aim of this study was to investigate relations between sensory and motor functions in hemiplegic in chronic stroke patients. Material and Methods: In this descriptive-analytic study, twenty seven stroke patients were recruited through random sampling. Sensory function of upper extremity was measured by fugl-meyer (sensory section) and Stereognosis test, and motor function was measured by motor section of fugl-meyer test. Results: Significant correlation was found between motor function of upper extremity with stereognosis abilities (P=0.002), but no significant correlation was found between motor function with sensory section (light touch and properioception) of fugl-meyer test. Conclusion: Regarding the significant correlation between motor function of upper extremity and stereognosis, it is essential to pay attention to sensory deficits in stroke patient during their rehabilitation.

Keywords: Stroke, Hemiplegia, Sensation