Effects of Full-Time Integrated Self Upper-Extremity Training Program on Functional Recovery and Length of Stay in Stroke Patients

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of full-time integrated self upper-extremity training program (FISUTP) on functional recovery and length of stay in stroke patients. METHOD: Fifty-nine patients were enrolled and divided into FISUTP and control groups. The FISUTP group (n=29) underwent conventional physical and occupational therapy and FISUTP daily during their hospital stay, whereas control group (n=30) received only daily conventional therapy (physical and occupational therapy). The outcome was measured by Korean version of modified Barthel index (K-MBI), Fugl-Meyer motor assessment (FMA), and length of stay (LOS). RESULTS: FISUTP group showed significantly shorter LOS and higher improvement in functional status changes (K-MBI changes and FMA changes) during hospital day than control group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The results showed FISUTP is an effective treatment for the improvement of functional outcome and reduction of hospital stay in stroke patients.