Efficacy of motor therapy over sensorimotor therapy in upper limb functions of post stroke patients

Introduction and Aim:Strokeis one of the leading causes of death and disability in India. The incidence of stroke rapidly increases with age, doubling for each decade after 55.In the majority of patients the upper limb is severely impaired than lower limb. The aim of this study was to analyze the efficacy of motor therapy over sensorimotor therapy in upper limb functions of post stroke patients. Materials and Methods: This was an experimental study, of pre-post type, that was conducted in the outpatient department of Physiotherapy at ACS Medical College and Hospital,chennai.30 samples were selected from 45 volunteers according to inclusion criteria and the study was conducted for Group A received sensorimotor therapy for one session/day for 6 days a week for 12 weeks. Group B received motor therapy for one session/day for 6 days a week for 12 weeks. Pre and post measurement were done using motor assessment scale, stroke upper limb capacity scale, action research arm test and nine-hole peg test. Results: There was a significant difference in mean values of group A and B on comparison. Group A seems to be more effective than group B. Conclusion: The study concludes that both motor therapy and sensorimotor therapy are beneficial in stroke rehabilitation, but sensorimotor therapy is more effective in improving the gross and fine motor skills of the upper limb of stroke patients.