Setting up a constraint induced movement therapy service within a community stroke team

Abstract

Evidence suggests that 80% of stroke survivors have upper limb motor impairments affecting their independence. There is a strong evidence base for using constraint induced movement therapy (CIMT) to improve upper limb function and overcome learned non-use. This intervention restrains the non-affected upper limb, increasing motivation to use the affected limb in functional tasks. NICE guidelines(2013) and RCP(2016) guidelines support the use of CIMT for upper limb rehabilitation following stroke. There has also been a Cochrane literature review which suggests that CIMT is significantly more effective than conventional treatment for improving motor function.