Comparison of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy vs Mirror Therapy Effect in Infarcted Cerebrovascular Patients for Improving Hand Function

Background: Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) are a leading cause of disability worldwide, significantly impairing hand function and impacting quality of life. Rehabilitation strategies like Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and Mirror Therapy (MT) have shown potential for improving motor function in stroke patients.Objective: To compare the effectiveness of CIMT and MT in improving hand function in patients with infarcted CVA.Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 26 participants (13 in each group) recruited from rehabilitation centers. Group A received CIMT, involving 45-minute sessions, five days a week for four weeks, focusing on repetitive task training with the affected limb while restricting the unaffected limb. Group B underwent MT with similar session frequency, utilizing visual feedback through a mirror. Hand function was assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory (CAHAI). Data were analyzed using Mixed Model ANOVA on SPSS version 25.Results: At post-assessment, the CIMT group showed significant improvement in FMA upper-arm (mean 29.46±1.45, p=0.011) and CAHAI scores (mean 71.77±3.88, p=0.020) compared to the MT group.Conclusion: Both CIMT and MT were effective for hand function improvement in infarcted CVA patients, with CIMT demonstrating more significant results.