Upper limb rehabilitation following stroke: current evidence and future perspectives

Abstract

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, with risk increasing with age. Upper limb hemiparesis is common and associated with persistent impairments and associated disabilities. Older stroke populations often suffer multiple co-morbidities and restoring independence is complex. Recovery of upper limb function can be crucial for them to return to independent living and to participate in community life.

This review describes upper limb recovery post stroke, and some of the new therapeutic approaches available to promote recovery. Technologies (including virtual reality and telehealth) offer the opportunity for more home based therapies, longer programs, greater access to rehabilitation for older people however the trials continue to exclude older people so acceptability is poorly understood.