Home-based Neurologic Music Therapy for Arm Hemiparesis Following Stroke: Results from a Pilot, Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial

Journal

Clinical Rehabilitation

Year

2018

Abstract

Objective: To assess the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial to evaluate music therapy as a home-based intervention for arm hemiparesis in stroke. Design: A pilot feasibility randomized controlled trial, with cross-over design. Randomization by statistician using computer-generated, random numbers concealed in opaque envelopes. Setting: Participants’ homes across Cambridgeshire, UK. Subjects: Eleven people with stroke and arm hemiparesis, 3–60 months post stroke, following discharge from community rehabilitation. Interventions: Each participant engaged in therapeutic instrumental music performance in 12 individual clinical contacts, twice weekly for six weeks. Main measures: Feasibility was estimated by recruitment from three community stroke teams over a 12-month period, attrition rates, completion of treatment and successful data collection. Structured interviews were conducted pre and post intervention to establish participant tolerance and preference. Action Research Arm Test and Nine-hole Peg Test data were collected at weeks 1, 6, 9, 15 and 18, pre and post intervention by a blinded assessor. Results: A total of 11 of 14 invited participants were recruited (intervention n = 6, waitlist n = 5). In total, 10 completed treatment and data collection. Conclusion: It cannot be concluded whether a larger trial would be feasible due to unavailable data regarding a number of eligible patients screened. Adherence to treatment, retention and interview responses might suggest that the intervention was motivating for participants.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Music Therapy; Observational Measures; Rehabilitation Exercises; Stroke; Subjective Measures

Indexed Terms

Home Care Services; Stroke Rehabilitation; Elderly; Elderly; arm; Cross-Over Studies; feasibility; Feasibility Studies; hemiparesis; Home care; Paresis; Pilot Projects; rehabilitation; stroke; Stroke

Study Type

Randomized Controlled; Trial; Quantitative Methods

Document Type

Article

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