Physical therapy exercises that do not enhance motor areas neuroplasticity lead to motor impairment especially at the upper extremity (UE) in the chronic stroke patients. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of using bilateral arm training on motor areas excitability (neuroplasticity) in the chronic stroke patients.
Methods
Thirty male chronic stroke patients with moderate impairment of UE were assigned into two equal groups. The changes of motor areas excitability (neuroplasticity) were assessed before and after arm training by spectral analysis of mapping electroencephalogram (EEG). Delta, theta, alpha, beta 1 and beta 2 waves were recorded. The equation which was used to detect the neural plasticity and the changing at motor areas excitability was dividing the fast wave/slow waves or detecting the ratio of mean frequency of (beta 2 + beta 1 + alpha/theta + delta).
Results
Patients in group 1 (G1) received unilateral arm training and patients in group 2 (G2) received bilateral arm training. The Results: Showed significant increase in the excitability (neuroplasticity) at (F4 + F8) and (C4) motor areas in G2 comparing to G1 (p!9 .006) and (p!9 .036 ) respectively.
Discussion
Bimanual training leads to activation of extensive networks in both hemispheres.
Conclusions
It was concluded that bilateral arm training is a recommended method to enhance the motor areas excitability (neuroplasticity) in the chronic stroke patients.
Significance
Post stroke physical therapy can make use of bimanual training for better rehabilitation.