COMbined Physical and somatoSEnsory training after stroke: Development and description of a novel intervention to improve upper limb function

Abstract

Background and purpose: After stroke, reach-to-grasp goal-directed movements are disrupted as a result of both residual motor and somatosensory impairments. This report describes the rationale and development of a new upper limb stroke rehabilitation intervention known as COMPoSE: “COMbined Physical and somatoSEnsory training,” designed to improve somatosensory and motor deficits in the upper limb after stroke. A standardized training matrix has been developed to facilitate intervention delivery. Methods: The COMPoSE intervention was developed through the following stages: (a) Definition and operationalization of somatosensory and motor variables used in training sensation and movement after..