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Dr Bhanu K Bhakhri

"The Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR) has been in operation since almost a decade. It has contributed a huge number of peer reviewed articles, across a spectrum of medical disciplines, to the medical literature.
Its wide based indexing and open access publications attracts many authors as well as readers
For authors, the manuscripts can be uploaded online through an easily navigable portal, on other hand, reviewers appreciate the systematic handling of all manuscripts. The way JCDR has emerged as an effective medium for publishing wide array of observations in Indian context, I wish the editorial team success in their endeavour"



Dr Bhanu K Bhakhri
Faculty, Pediatric Medicine
Super Speciality Paediatric Hospital and Post Graduate Teaching Institute, Noida
On Sep 2018




Dr Mohan Z Mani

"Thank you very much for having published my article in record time.I would like to compliment you and your entire staff for your promptness, courtesy, and willingness to be customer friendly, which is quite unusual.I was given your reference by a colleague in pathology,and was able to directly phone your editorial office for clarifications.I would particularly like to thank the publication managers and the Assistant Editor who were following up my article. I would also like to thank you for adjusting the money I paid initially into payment for my modified article,and refunding the balance.
I wish all success to your journal and look forward to sending you any suitable similar article in future"



Dr Mohan Z Mani,
Professor & Head,
Department of Dematolgy,
Believers Church Medical College,
Thiruvalla, Kerala
On Sep 2018




Prof. Somashekhar Nimbalkar

"Over the last few years, we have published our research regularly in Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. Having published in more than 20 high impact journals over the last five years including several high impact ones and reviewing articles for even more journals across my fields of interest, we value our published work in JCDR for their high standards in publishing scientific articles. The ease of submission, the rapid reviews in under a month, the high quality of their reviewers and keen attention to the final process of proofs and publication, ensure that there are no mistakes in the final article. We have been asked clarifications on several occasions and have been happy to provide them and it exemplifies the commitment to quality of the team at JCDR."



Prof. Somashekhar Nimbalkar
Head, Department of Pediatrics, Pramukhswami Medical College, Karamsad
Chairman, Research Group, Charutar Arogya Mandal, Karamsad
National Joint Coordinator - Advanced IAP NNF NRP Program
Ex-Member, Governing Body, National Neonatology Forum, New Delhi
Ex-President - National Neonatology Forum Gujarat State Chapter
Department of Pediatrics, Pramukhswami Medical College, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat.
On Sep 2018




Dr. Kalyani R

"Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research is at present a well-known Indian originated scientific journal which started with a humble beginning. I have been associated with this journal since many years. I appreciate the Editor, Dr. Hemant Jain, for his constant effort in bringing up this journal to the present status right from the scratch. The journal is multidisciplinary. It encourages in publishing the scientific articles from postgraduates and also the beginners who start their career. At the same time the journal also caters for the high quality articles from specialty and super-specialty researchers. Hence it provides a platform for the scientist and researchers to publish. The other aspect of it is, the readers get the information regarding the most recent developments in science which can be used for teaching, research, treating patients and to some extent take preventive measures against certain diseases. The journal is contributing immensely to the society at national and international level."



Dr Kalyani R
Professor and Head
Department of Pathology
Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College
Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research , Kolar, Karnataka
On Sep 2018




Dr. Saumya Navit

"As a peer-reviewed journal, the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research provides an opportunity to researchers, scientists and budding professionals to explore the developments in the field of medicine and dentistry and their varied specialities, thus extending our view on biological diversities of living species in relation to medicine.
‘Knowledge is treasure of a wise man.’ The free access of this journal provides an immense scope of learning for the both the old and the young in field of medicine and dentistry as well. The multidisciplinary nature of the journal makes it a better platform to absorb all that is being researched and developed. The publication process is systematic and professional. Online submission, publication and peer reviewing makes it a user-friendly journal.
As an experienced dentist and an academician, I proudly recommend this journal to the dental fraternity as a good quality open access platform for rapid communication of their cutting-edge research progress and discovery.
I wish JCDR a great success and I hope that journal will soar higher with the passing time."



Dr Saumya Navit
Professor and Head
Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Saraswati Dental College
Lucknow
On Sep 2018




Dr. Arunava Biswas

"My sincere attachment with JCDR as an author as well as reviewer is a learning experience . Their systematic approach in publication of article in various categories is really praiseworthy.
Their prompt and timely response to review's query and the manner in which they have set the reviewing process helps in extracting the best possible scientific writings for publication.
It's a honour and pride to be a part of the JCDR team. My very best wishes to JCDR and hope it will sparkle up above the sky as a high indexed journal in near future."



Dr. Arunava Biswas
MD, DM (Clinical Pharmacology)
Assistant Professor
Department of Pharmacology
Calcutta National Medical College & Hospital , Kolkata




Dr. C.S. Ramesh Babu
" Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR) is a multi-specialty medical and dental journal publishing high quality research articles in almost all branches of medicine. The quality of printing of figures and tables is excellent and comparable to any International journal. An added advantage is nominal publication charges and monthly issue of the journal and more chances of an article being accepted for publication. Moreover being a multi-specialty journal an article concerning a particular specialty has a wider reach of readers of other related specialties also. As an author and reviewer for several years I find this Journal most suitable and highly recommend this Journal."
Best regards,
C.S. Ramesh Babu,
Associate Professor of Anatomy,
Muzaffarnagar Medical College,
Muzaffarnagar.
On Aug 2018




Dr. Arundhathi. S
"Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR) is a reputed peer reviewed journal and is constantly involved in publishing high quality research articles related to medicine. Its been a great pleasure to be associated with this esteemed journal as a reviewer and as an author for a couple of years. The editorial board consists of many dedicated and reputed experts as its members and they are doing an appreciable work in guiding budding researchers. JCDR is doing a commendable job in scientific research by promoting excellent quality research & review articles and case reports & series. The reviewers provide appropriate suggestions that improve the quality of articles. I strongly recommend my fraternity to encourage JCDR by contributing their valuable research work in this widely accepted, user friendly journal. I hope my collaboration with JCDR will continue for a long time".



Dr. Arundhathi. S
MBBS, MD (Pathology),
Sanjay Gandhi institute of trauma and orthopedics,
Bengaluru.
On Aug 2018




Dr. Mamta Gupta,
"It gives me great pleasure to be associated with JCDR, since last 2-3 years. Since then I have authored, co-authored and reviewed about 25 articles in JCDR. I thank JCDR for giving me an opportunity to improve my own skills as an author and a reviewer.
It 's a multispecialty journal, publishing high quality articles. It gives a platform to the authors to publish their research work which can be available for everyone across the globe to read. The best thing about JCDR is that the full articles of all medical specialties are available as pdf/html for reading free of cost or without institutional subscription, which is not there for other journals. For those who have problem in writing manuscript or do statistical work, JCDR comes for their rescue.
The journal has a monthly publication and the articles are published quite fast. In time compared to other journals. The on-line first publication is also a great advantage and facility to review one's own articles before going to print. The response to any query and permission if required, is quite fast; this is quite commendable. I have a very good experience about seeking quick permission for quoting a photograph (Fig.) from a JCDR article for my chapter authored in an E book. I never thought it would be so easy. No hassles.
Reviewing articles is no less a pain staking process and requires in depth perception, knowledge about the topic for review. It requires time and concentration, yet I enjoy doing it. The JCDR website especially for the reviewers is quite user friendly. My suggestions for improving the journal is, more strict review process, so that only high quality articles are published. I find a a good number of articles in Obst. Gynae, hence, a new journal for this specialty titled JCDR-OG can be started. May be a bimonthly or quarterly publication to begin with. Only selected articles should find a place in it.
An yearly reward for the best article authored can also incentivize the authors. Though the process of finding the best article will be not be very easy. I do not know how reviewing process can be improved. If an article is being reviewed by two reviewers, then opinion of one can be communicated to the other or the final opinion of the editor can be communicated to the reviewer if requested for. This will help one’s reviewing skills.
My best wishes to Dr. Hemant Jain and all the editorial staff of JCDR for their untiring efforts to bring out this journal. I strongly recommend medical fraternity to publish their valuable research work in this esteemed journal, JCDR".



Dr. Mamta Gupta
Consultant
(Ex HOD Obs &Gynae, Hindu Rao Hospital and associated NDMC Medical College, Delhi)
Aug 2018




Dr. Rajendra Kumar Ghritlaharey

"I wish to thank Dr. Hemant Jain, Editor-in-Chief Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR), for asking me to write up few words.
Writing is the representation of language in a textual medium i e; into the words and sentences on paper. Quality medical manuscript writing in particular, demands not only a high-quality research, but also requires accurate and concise communication of findings and conclusions, with adherence to particular journal guidelines. In medical field whether working in teaching, private, or in corporate institution, everyone wants to excel in his / her own field and get recognised by making manuscripts publication.


Authors are the souls of any journal, and deserve much respect. To publish a journal manuscripts are needed from authors. Authors have a great responsibility for producing facts of their work in terms of number and results truthfully and an individual honesty is expected from authors in this regards. Both ways its true "No authors-No manuscripts-No journals" and "No journals–No manuscripts–No authors". Reviewing a manuscript is also a very responsible and important task of any peer-reviewed journal and to be taken seriously. It needs knowledge on the subject, sincerity, honesty and determination. Although the process of reviewing a manuscript is a time consuming task butit is expected to give one's best remarks within the time frame of the journal.
Salient features of the JCDR: It is a biomedical, multidisciplinary (including all medical and dental specialities), e-journal, with wide scope and extensive author support. At the same time, a free text of manuscript is available in HTML and PDF format. There is fast growing authorship and readership with JCDR as this can be judged by the number of articles published in it i e; in Feb 2007 of its first issue, it contained 5 articles only, and now in its recent volume published in April 2011, it contained 67 manuscripts. This e-journal is fulfilling the commitments and objectives sincerely, (as stated by Editor-in-chief in his preface to first edition) i e; to encourage physicians through the internet, especially from the developing countries who witness a spectrum of disease and acquire a wealth of knowledge to publish their experiences to benefit the medical community in patients care. I also feel that many of us have work of substance, newer ideas, adequate clinical materials but poor in medical writing and hesitation to submit the work and need help. JCDR provides authors help in this regards.
Timely publication of journal: Publication of manuscripts and bringing out the issue in time is one of the positive aspects of JCDR and is possible with strong support team in terms of peer reviewers, proof reading, language check, computer operators, etc. This is one of the great reasons for authors to submit their work with JCDR. Another best part of JCDR is "Online first Publications" facilities available for the authors. This facility not only provides the prompt publications of the manuscripts but at the same time also early availability of the manuscripts for the readers.
Indexation and online availability: Indexation transforms the journal in some sense from its local ownership to the worldwide professional community and to the public.JCDR is indexed with Embase & EMbiology, Google Scholar, Index Copernicus, Chemical Abstracts Service, Journal seek Database, Indian Science Abstracts, to name few of them. Manuscriptspublished in JCDR are available on major search engines ie; google, yahoo, msn.
In the era of fast growing newer technologies, and in computer and internet friendly environment the manuscripts preparation, submission, review, revision, etc and all can be done and checked with a click from all corer of the world, at any time. Of course there is always a scope for improvement in every field and none is perfect. To progress, one needs to identify the areas of one's weakness and to strengthen them.
It is well said that "happy beginning is half done" and it fits perfectly with JCDR. It has grown considerably and I feel it has already grown up from its infancy to adolescence, achieving the status of standard online e-journal form Indian continent since its inception in Feb 2007. This had been made possible due to the efforts and the hard work put in it. The way the JCDR is improving with every new volume, with good quality original manuscripts, makes it a quality journal for readers. I must thank and congratulate Dr Hemant Jain, Editor-in-Chief JCDR and his team for their sincere efforts, dedication, and determination for making JCDR a fast growing journal.
Every one of us: authors, reviewers, editors, and publisher are responsible for enhancing the stature of the journal. I wish for a great success for JCDR."



Thanking you
With sincere regards
Dr. Rajendra Kumar Ghritlaharey, M.S., M. Ch., FAIS
Associate Professor,
Department of Paediatric Surgery, Gandhi Medical College & Associated
Kamla Nehru & Hamidia Hospitals Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462 001 (India)
E-mail: drrajendrak1@rediffmail.com
On May 11,2011




Dr. Shankar P.R.

"On looking back through my Gmail archives after being requested by the journal to write a short editorial about my experiences of publishing with the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (JCDR), I came across an e-mail from Dr. Hemant Jain, Editor, in March 2007, which introduced the new electronic journal. The main features of the journal which were outlined in the e-mail were extensive author support, cash rewards, the peer review process, and other salient features of the journal.
Over a span of over four years, we (I and my colleagues) have published around 25 articles in the journal. In this editorial, I plan to briefly discuss my experiences of publishing with JCDR and the strengths of the journal and to finally address the areas for improvement.
My experiences of publishing with JCDR: Overall, my experiences of publishing withJCDR have been positive. The best point about the journal is that it responds to queries from the author. This may seem to be simple and not too much to ask for, but unfortunately, many journals in the subcontinent and from many developing countries do not respond or they respond with a long delay to the queries from the authors 1. The reasons could be many, including lack of optimal secretarial and other support. Another problem with many journals is the slowness of the review process. Editorial processing and peer review can take anywhere between a year to two years with some journals. Also, some journals do not keep the contributors informed about the progress of the review process. Due to the long review process, the articles can lose their relevance and topicality. A major benefit with JCDR is the timeliness and promptness of its response. In Dr Jain's e-mail which was sent to me in 2007, before the introduction of the Pre-publishing system, he had stated that he had received my submission and that he would get back to me within seven days and he did!
Most of the manuscripts are published within 3 to 4 months of their submission if they are found to be suitable after the review process. JCDR is published bimonthly and the accepted articles were usually published in the next issue. Recently, due to the increased volume of the submissions, the review process has become slower and it ?? Section can take from 4 to 6 months for the articles to be reviewed. The journal has an extensive author support system and it has recently introduced a paid expedited review process. The journal also mentions the average time for processing the manuscript under different submission systems - regular submission and expedited review.
Strengths of the journal: The journal has an online first facility in which the accepted manuscripts may be published on the website before being included in a regular issue of the journal. This cuts down the time between their acceptance and the publication. The journal is indexed in many databases, though not in PubMed. The editorial board should now take steps to index the journal in PubMed. The journal has a system of notifying readers through e-mail when a new issue is released. Also, the articles are available in both the HTML and the PDF formats. I especially like the new and colorful page format of the journal. Also, the access statistics of the articles are available. The prepublication and the manuscript tracking system are also helpful for the authors.
Areas for improvement: In certain cases, I felt that the peer review process of the manuscripts was not up to international standards and that it should be strengthened. Also, the number of manuscripts in an issue is high and it may be difficult for readers to go through all of them. The journal can consider tightening of the peer review process and increasing the quality standards for the acceptance of the manuscripts. I faced occasional problems with the online manuscript submission (Pre-publishing) system, which have to be addressed.
Overall, the publishing process with JCDR has been smooth, quick and relatively hassle free and I can recommend other authors to consider the journal as an outlet for their work."



Dr. P. Ravi Shankar
KIST Medical College, P.O. Box 14142, Kathmandu, Nepal.
E-mail: ravi.dr.shankar@gmail.com
On April 2011

Important Notice

Original article / research
Year : 2024 | Month : June | Volume : 18 | Issue : 6 | Page : KC01 - KC05 Full Version

Effectiveness of Mirror Therapy through Telerehabilitation on Upper Extremity Performance in Hemiparetic Stroke Patients: An Experimental Study

Published: June 1, 2024 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2024/69263.19517

AT Althaf, Ganapathy Sankar Umaiorubagam, Monisha Ravikumar, Redkar Simran Sandeep

1. Postgraduate Student, SRM College of Occupational Therapy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India. 2. Professor and Dean, SRM College of Occupational Therapy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India. 3. Research Scholar, SRM College of Occupational Therapy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India. 4. Research Scholar, SRM College of Occupational Therapy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India.

Correspondence Address :
Dr. Ganapathy Sankar Umaiorubagam,
Professor and Dean, SRM College of Occupational Therapy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District-603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
E-mail: ganapatu@srmist.edu.in

Abstract

Introduction: A major challenge in stroke rehabilitation is the paresis of the Upper Extremity (UE), resulting in limited functional performance. Recently, motor imagery and Mirror Therapy (MT) have been recommended as an additional rehabilitation strategies that could be beneficial for motor rehabilitation after a stroke.

Aim: To determine the effectiveness of mirror visual feedback through Telerehabilitation (TR) on UE functional performance in hemiparetic stroke patients.

Materials and Methods: An experimental pretest, post-test study design was conducted at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRMIST, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India from January 2021 to June 2021. Total of 60 patients diagnosed with hemiparetic stroke were included in the study through convenience sampling and divided into two groups. The experimental group (n=30) received TR, and the control group (n=30) received face-to-face MT for 12 weeks. A pretest and post-test evaluation were administered using the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and Fugl-Meyer Assessment for the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE). Within-group analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, while intergroup analysis was conducted using the Mann-Whitney U Test.

Results: The study revealed statistical significance between the pretest and post-test scores of the WMFT-FAS (Functional Ability Score), WMFT-Time (Performance Time), and FMA-UE in the control and experimental groups. The results showed no statistically significant difference between the post-test scores of the control and experimental groups in the FMA and WMFT-FAS. However, there was a statistically significant distinction in the post-test scores between the control and experimental groups in WMFT-Time.

Conclusion: The study concluded that mirror visual feedback through TR was an effective treatment method to improve UE functional performance among hemiparetic stroke patients by offering an alternative service delivery model for occupational therapy.

Keywords

Cerebrovascular accident, Cognitive retraining, Occupational therapy, Technology-based intervention

Introduction
The impairment of the UE in stroke survivors is quite complex, as the type of impairment is variable, and two or more deficits may co-exist (1). One of the primary concerns for stroke survivors is their inability to move their upper extremities. Furthermore, it is important to emphasise that progress in this field is closely linked to an improvement in everyday tasks (2),(3). Approximately 65% of stroke survivors are unable to perform meaningful everyday activities with their affected upper extremities (4). Only about 12% of stroke survivors are self-sufficient in everyday activities, and between 25% and 74% require human assistance with various activities such as self-care and mobility (5). The severely paretic arm is one of the most debilitating poststroke conditions (6), and there are few effective therapy options for its relief. A fundamental study established that functional abnormalities following a stroke are defined by anatomical damage and the level of cortical activation during movement of the affected limb, which can be active or passive (7). Patients with severe hemiparesis are doubly disadvantaged by this process. The motor deficit often prevents the arm from being actively used for functionally relevant activities, leading to a decrease in its cerebral representation (8).

The MT operates by utilising the mirror neuron system, which comprises specific visuomotor neurons located in the premotor cortex, primary somatosensory cortex, and inferior parietal cortex (9). This system activates through passive observation, imagination, or action execution. Activation of the mirror-neuron system is known to enhance the primary motor cortex, responsible for controlling actions during task performance (10),(11). Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of MT as an additional treatment for stroke patients’ upper extremities [12,13]. Furthermore, researchers have explored its effectiveness alongside other neurophysiological or physical approaches (14),(15),(16). Patients undergoing MT have shown superior outcomes compared to control groups in assessments such as the action reach arm test, functional independence measure, and mental imagery poststroke (17). MT enhances the capacity for self-reliant engagement in daily activities among individuals experiencing right arm weakness following a stroke (18).

Telehealth refers to the utilisation of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for delivering health services, enabling providers and clients to be in separate physical locations. This includes administering evaluative, consultative, preventive, and therapeutic services via ICT (19). Home-based TR is described as a rehabilitation method where rehabilitation physicians provide rehabilitation techniques to individuals with disabilities using telecommunication devices (20). Studies suggest that TR methods can be equally effective as traditional rehabilitation (CR) in enhancing Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and improving adherence to rehabilitation exercises (21),(22).

Research indicates that TR is an effective therapy for stroke, enhancing motor function, speech, cognition, and overall quality of life. The interactive video aspects of TR significantly boost patient satisfaction compared to home rehabilitation programs lacking video components (23). TR includes guided physical therapy, speech therapy, Virtual Reality (VR), robotic-assisted training, and goal-setting approaches. These sessions can be individual or community-focused. TR has the potential to improve accessibility and address healthcare worker-to-patient ratios, especially in underserved areas. Combining TR with home-based interventions enhances patient-centered outcomes, particularly for those without access to traditional rehabilitation (24). A study found that guiding patients and families in setting daily goals increased satisfaction and improved daily activity performance in areas lacking formal rehabilitation services (25).

A significant hindrance in stroke recovery involves weakness in the upper extremities, leading to limited functional abilities (26). Current stroke rehabilitation methods encompass exercises targeting the impaired arm, functional electrical stimulation, robotic-assisted therapy, bilateral arm training, constraint-induced movement therapy, and biofeedback (13). The fundamental principle underlying these therapeutic approaches is that consistent physical practice enhances motor function, enabling the brain to re-establish the pathways responsible for voluntary movement (27). Nevertheless, these treatments are not widely applicable in severe hemiparesis situations. Some of these methods are expensive and require significant labour, restricting their broader implementation (28). New studies propose that the utilisation of motor imagery through imagination (27) and MT could serve as supplementary rehabilitation techniques beneficial for poststroke motor recovery (29),(30).

Healthcare providers in rural areas frequently lack access to the latest medical advancements and technologies available in larger cities. Research indicates that around 50% of veterans travel more than 25 miles for healthcare services (31). The absence of accessible healthcare in rural areas leads many individuals to delay or even forgo necessary treatment. Moreover, individuals in urban areas face diminished healthcare quality due to mobility limitations and accessibility challenges.

MT offers a promising approach to address hemiparesis, a condition characterised by weakness on one side of the body, for which there are limited effective treatments. TR, an alternative therapy for stroke patients, utilises electronic ICT to deliver healthcare support, particularly when patients and providers are separated by distance. Given that stroke rehabilitation is a prolonged process, utilising home-based TR through devices like mobile phones and laptops presents an affordable and practical solution for stroke survivors coping with hemiparesis. Currently, there is a lack of evidence regarding the combined use of TR and MT to enhance UE performance in individuals affected by hemiparetic stroke. This study seeks to determine the effectiveness of mirror visual feedback through TR on UE functional performance in hemiparetic stroke patients.
Material and Methods
An experimental pretest, post-test study design was conducted at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRMIST, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India, from January 2021 to June 2021. The study obtained approval from the Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC) of SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRMIST, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India. The ethical clearance number was 2082/IEC/2020.

Sixty hemiparetic stroke patients were recruited through a convenience sampling procedure, and participants were randomly allocated into the control group (n=30) and experimental group (n=30).

Inclusion criteria: Subjects diagnosed with hemiparetic stroke aged 18 years and above, one to six months poststroke with a Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score >24, and users of smartphones and computers were included in the study.

Exclusion criteria: Subjects with a history of any other neurological disorder, unilateral neglect, and cognitive deficits were excluded from the study.

Screening Tools

Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE): The MMSE is versatile in evaluating cognitive impairment, estimating its severity, tracking changes over time, and monitoring responses to treatment. It covers various cognitive aspects such as attention, language, memory, orientation, and visuospatial skills (32). It demonstrates a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.76 (33). Its test-retest reliability within 24 hours is strong, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of r=0.89. Furthermore, it exhibits excellent agreement with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) with a correlation coefficient of r=0.86 (32). The total score ranges from 0 to 30, with a generally recognised threshold for cognitive impairment being a score of 23 or lower (34). The degrees of impairment are classified as none (24-30), mild (18-23), and severe (0-17).

Star cancellation test: This assessment tool is designed for screening unilateral spatial neglect in stroke survivors. It involves marking 56 smaller stars, 13 letters, and 10 short words among 52 large stars on an 8.5?×11? paper. The maximum achievable score is 54 points. A cut-off of less than 44 indicates the presence of unilateral spatial neglect. All the participants in present study scored below the cut-off. The star cancellation test demonstrated a test-retest reliability of 0.89, and the convergent validity of the star cancellation test showed r=0.63 (35).
Outcome Measures

Fugl-Meyer Assessment of motor recovery (FMA): The FMA (36),(37) serves as a standardised test for evaluating poststroke recovery. It covers four major domains: motor function (including UE (five questions), wrist (five questions), hand (seven questions), and coordination/speed (three questions), sensation (two questions), passive joint movement (five questions), and joint pain (five questions). Administering the FMA typically takes around 30 minutes and is available in English and French languages. It is a well-validated, reliable, and freely accessible assessment tool that provides normative data, offering clinicians worldwide a valuable means to efficiently detect and diagnose various causes of motor impairment across diverse age groups. This evaluation entails directly observing performance, utilising a 3-point ordinal scale (0=cannot perform, 1=performs partially, 2=performs fully) for scoring scale items. The total possible score on the scale is 226, and scores are interpreted as follows: 0-35 very severe, 36-55 severe, 56-79 moderate, and >79 mild impairments. The FMA demonstrates good internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha ranging from α=0.85 to 0.91 and strong test-retest reliability at α=0.95. Interrater reliability was shown to be 0.6.

Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT): The WMFT (38),(39) is used to evaluate the effects of constraint-induced movement therapy on individuals with mild to moderate stroke and traumatic brain injury. Focused on timed and functional tasks, the WMFT evaluates UE motor capabilities. The most common version of the WMFT includes 17 components, covering timed functional tasks, strength measures, and movement quality analyses while performing various activities. Examiners should start with the less affected UE and progress downward in assessment. The items on the WMFT are assessed on a six-point scale, where lower scores correspond to lower functioning levels. The WMFT shows robust internal consistency, boasting an impressive Cronbach’s Coefficient Alpha of α=0.92 (40). Additionally, it exhibits excellent test-retest reliability for both functional ability and performance tests, with Pearson Correlation Coefficients of r=0.95 and 0.90, respectively (39). In terms of concurrent validity, the WMFT shows strong correlations, particularly with the FMA-UE, with an excellent correlation coefficient of r=-0.88. This concurrent validity was evaluated by comparing the WMFT to the UE-FMA, which is considered the gold standard, in 66 clients with stroke (41).

Study Procedure

The study was initiated by explaining its purpose to both the institution’s head and the subjects, ensuring informed consent from both the institution and individual participants. To screen the subjects, a cognitive assessment using the MMSE and the Star Cancellation Test for unilateral spatial neglect was conducted. The 60 subjects were equally and randomly divided into the experimental group and control group for 12 weeks through convenience sampling. The control group underwent face-to-face UE motor training interventions (Table/Fig 1), while the experimental group was provided with a mirror box (40) and a toolbox containing various objects for object manipulation and transport activities. All participants received a mirror box and toolbox for object transfer. Instructions and activities for the TR group were conducted through WhatsApp’s web version 2.21.16 using a Windows 10 64-bit-based laptop system.

Both groups underwent interventions five times a week, each lasting 30 to 45 minutes. Baseline performance was evaluated using the FMA and WMFT. Postintervention, the primary investigator administered the post-test data.

Intervention protocol: Before initiating the intervention, the main researcher provided subjects with instruction on MT, including guidance on setting up and utilising the mirror box, recommended activities for MT, and the advised frequency of MT sessions. The choice of MT activities was based on information derived from published reviews (42). Participants were directed to place the mirror box centrally between their upper extremities, aligning the mirror to overlay the reflection of the unimpaired limb onto the impaired one. Participants were directed to engage in activities that involved both limbs, with a focus on the mirror image of the unaffected arm and hand. The instruction was to attempt movement of the affected arm and hand within the mirror box during these activities. The recommended duration for MT was 30 to 45 minutes daily, conducted five days a week (Table/Fig 2),(Table/Fig 3).

Statistical Analysis

The data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 24.0 version. Descriptive statistics were applied to evaluate data distribution and summarise the information. Within-group scores for outcome measures were evaluated using Wilcoxon signed-rank test, while group comparisons were conducted through the Mann-Whitney U Test. The hypothesis under scrutiny aimed to ascertain if the treatment administered had a statistically significant effect. A significance level of alpha, set at p-value <0.05, was employed to determine statistical significance.
Results
Gender distribution of control group and experimental group comprised 16 males and 14 females. Both control and experimental groups consisted of 12 right-side and 18 left-side affected participants (Table/Fig 4).

A statistically significant difference was found between the scores obtained in the pretest and post-test assessments of FMA, WMFT-FAS, and WMFT-time (Table/Fig 5).

There was a significant disparity in scores for the FMA-UE and WMFT-time before and after MT for the UE in hemiparetic stroke. However, there was no noteworthy distinction in the scores of the WMFT-FAS between the pretest and post-test assessments (Table/Fig 6).

The results revealed no statistically significant difference (p-value >0.05) between the pretest scores of the control and experimental groups in the FMA, WMFT-FAS, and WMFT-time (Table/Fig 7).

The results showed no statistically significant difference between the post-test scores of the control and experimental groups in the FMA and WMFT-FAS. However, there was a statistically significant distinction in the post-test scores between the control and experimental groups in WMFT-time (Table/Fig 8).
Discussion
The MT improves UE functional performance among hemiparetic stroke patients. The significance of the study was attributed to function-based activities monitored with adequate guidance by the occupational therapist. This was achieved through repeated practice and encouragement via synchronised or video conference-based TR, where the therapist and patient communicated in real-time through video conferencing technology. Participants were able to perform activities with TR-based MT as they were task-oriented, and the mirror box provided immediate visual feedback of the unaffected side, enhancing participant motivation. Participants followed instructions provided through synchronised video streaming, and even if were not able to perform an activity, they attempted to continue or repeat the task.

These findings are consistent with a previous study that concluded self-administered MT at home, following detailed instructions from a physician through TR, could alleviate phantom limb pain. The study suggests that relief can be achieved by using home-based MT with initiation, feedback, and follow-up provided entirely through TR by healthcare professionals (43). Furthermore, a systematic review on the use of TR as physical therapy for poststroke patients concluded that various TR techniques, including portable transcutaneous electrical stimulation, MT, home exercise programs, and Virtual Reality (VR) exercises, can be utilised for the physical exercise of stroke patients (44).

The study’s findings demonstrate that MT effectively enhances UE functional performance in individuals with hemiparetic stroke. This aligns with research suggesting the feasibility and effectiveness of a home-based MT program for poststroke UE improvement. MT involves using a mirror to create the illusion of the affected limb’s reflection, tricking the brain into perceiving pain-free movement or providing positive visual feedback. By placing the affected limb behind the mirror, the reflection of the unaffected limb replaces the hidden limb, capitalising on the brain’s preference for visual feedback over somatosensory or proprioceptive feedback on limb position (45).

MT has the capacity to boost cortical and spinal motor excitability, potentially influencing the mirror neuron system, comprising about 20% of all human brain neurons. These neurons play a vital role in reconstructing laterality, distinguishing between the left and right-sides. By employing a mirror box, the activation of these mirror neurons facilitates the recovery of impaired body parts.

A study found that incorporating MT into the rehabilitation of inpatients recovering from subacute stroke, along with standard rehabilitation, led to enhanced hand functioning. This improvement was noted immediately after four weeks of treatment and during the six-month follow-up, compared to a control treatment (46). The present study reveals a difference in post-test scores of the FMA and WMFT-FAS based on the mean difference on the WMFT between the control and experimental groups. There was a statistically significant difference in WMFT-Time between the control and experimental groups. This aligns with findings from a prior study, which assessed the clinical effectiveness of a VR-based TR program for balance recovery in hemiparetic individuals poststroke, comparing it with an in-clinic program while examining subjective experiences. The study results reviewed several key findings. Firstly, VR TR interventions have the potential to facilitate the recovery of locomotor skills related to balance, comparable to in-clinic interventions, when combined with a conventional therapy program. Secondly, the usability and motivation for utilising both interventions can be similar. Lastly, TR interventions may offer cost savings, the extent of which depends on specific circumstances in each scenario (47). A study described TR as a valuable complement to traditional poststroke rehabilitation for stroke survivors at home, facilitated through home visits and telephone communication. The study results revealed enhanced physical function lasting up to three months postintervention, suggesting that TR serves as a valuable addition to conventional poststroke rehabilitation. This is particularly beneficial considering the constraints on resources for at-home rehabilitation for stroke survivors (21). In a trial study, a self-instructional video-based therapy program was employed as an intervention method for stroke survivors in a home setting (48). TR offers an alternative service delivery model for occupational therapy, not only bridging distance but also offering user-friendly treatment for patients at home.

Limitation(s)

Small sample size was the limitation of the study which made generalisability difficult.
Conclusion
The study concluded that MT through TR might be an effective treatment method to improve UE functional performance among hemiparetic stroke patients by offering an alternative service delivery model for occupational therapy. This study recommends continuous follow-up of participants to identify the effects of MT through TR over the long process. Further research is recommended on a larger sample size and longer duration of intervention.
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DOI and Others
DOI: 10.7860/JCDR/2024/69263.19517

Date of Submission: Dec 25, 2023
Date of Peer Review: Feb 19, 2024
Date of Acceptance: Apr 15, 2024
Date of Publishing: Jun 01, 2024

AUTHOR DECLARATION:
• Financial or Other Competing Interests: None
• Was Ethics Committee Approval obtained for this study? Yes
• Was informed consent obtained from the subjects involved in the study? Yes
• For any images presented appropriate consent has been obtained from the subjects. Yes

PLAGIARISM CHECKING METHODS:
• Plagiarism X-checker: Dec 25, 2023
• Manual Googling: Feb 21, 2024
• iThenticate Software: Apr 13, 2024 (12%)

ETYMOLOGY: Author Origin

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