An accelerometry and observational study to quantify upper limb use after stroke during inpatient rehabilitation

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of the study are to characterize paretic upper limb (UL) use in people with different levels of impairment 4 weeks poststroke and to compare accelerometry and direct observational approaches. Methods: Twelve stroke inpatients (five mild, three moderate, and four severe UL impairment) were recruited from a rehabilitation hospital. UL use was measured using accelerometry (24 hr) and direct observation (12 hr of behavioural mapping). Accelerometry variables included duration of use, use ratio, magnitude ratio, bilateral magnitude, and variation ratio. Direct observation recorded the duration of use and type of UL movement (e.g., functional vs. non-functional). Results..