An Evaluation Of The Effects Of A Dynamic Lycra (R) Orthosis On Arm Function In A Late Stage Patient With Acquired Brain Injury

Primary objective: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a dynamic lycra (R) orthosis in the management of upper limb paresis in a late stage stroke patient.Research design: A single case experiment, adopting a 3- phase ABA withdrawal design ( without follow- up), similar to 6- weeks per phase, intervention being delivered in the middle/ B phase.Method and procedures: Assessment of arm function was carried out on a weekly basis for the 18- weeks, using a battery of upper limb tests. The subject was prescribed a tailor- made lycra (R) orthosis which was worn daily during the middle phase of the trial.Main outcomes and results: Orthosis wear appeared to result in improvements in active range of movement, self- rated function and one component of a writing test, with some suggestion of a carryover effect when treatment was withdrawn. No intervention- related changes were seen in a dressing test. Ambiguous results were seen in a further writing test and a peg board manipulation assessment. Irrespective of intervention, the subject made positive changes in scores in the majority of assessments used, throughout the 18- week period.Conclusions: The findings suggest that a lycra (R) orthosis may have some beneficial effects on upper limb function late after brain injury. Results were however equivocal, suggesting ( a) that effect mechanisms may be quite complex and ( b) that future evaluations may require careful construction.