Impact of Task Oriented Training on Activities of Daily Living in Post Stroke Rehabilitation: A Single Arm Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction: There are several complications following the stroke including reduced functional independence, inability to maintain adequate posture, alterations in daily activities and several others. Physical therapy intervention aims at improving the stated complications targeting the task-oriented approach. This study investigated the effect of task-oriented training in post stroke patients on activities of daily living. Methodology:  In this single-arm randomized controlled trial, 10 post-stroke males with hemiparesis and functional limitations in activities of daily living (ADL) were recruited following informed consent. The study implemented a structured intervention including activities like Forward Reach and Grasping Pen in sitting, Ball squeeze, stacking rings, piling up the Cones, Pegboard activities, Ball kicking, and Stepping drill. Each activity had a different dosage based on the specific drill performed. Pre and post-test evaluations were conducted on Day 0 and Day 21, utilizing the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Barthel Index (BI). Results:  Within the group comparisons revealed statistically significant differences (p< 0.05). The pre and post-test readings for FIM were evaluated as 52.50±15.130 and 69.0±11.972 respectively and for BI were observed as 61.0±14.870 and 74.50±7.619 respectively. Conclusion: Task-oriented training is an effective and viable method for enhancing functional independence and strength in activities of daily living (ADLs) in patients with hemiparesis following stroke.