Effects of Maximum Versus Minimum Supervised Telerehabilitation on Upper Limb Function in Post Stroke Patients
This single-blinded randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of maximum versus minimum therapist supervision during home-based telerehabilitation for improving upper limb motor function, task performance, coordination, and proprioception in stroke survivors. The study will be conducted at MDL Rehabilitation FUCP and participants' home settings. A total of 30 stroke survivors aged 40-70 years with mild to moderate upper limb impairment (Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity \[FM-UE\] score 23-56) and a stroke duration of 3-24 months will be recruited through purposive sampling and randomly allocated to either the maximum- or minimum-supervision group.Participants in the maximum-supervision group will receive three 45-minute videoconference-based telerehabilitation sessions per week, for a total of 24 sessions over eight weeks. Exercises will be individualized according to baseline FM-UE scores. The minimum-supervision group will perform an independent home-based exercise program at the same frequency and duration, supplemented by weekly therapist check-ins and a self-maintained exercise log. Both groups will receive standardized instructional materials, including an exercise booklet and demonstration videos, and will perform exercises within individual fatigue limits.The primary outcomes will be assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Assessment, Wolf Motor Function Test, Comprehensive Coordination Scale, and Thumb Localization Test, evaluating upper limb motor recovery, functional task performance, coordination, and proprioception.The study is expected to determine whether greater therapist supervision provides superior or comparable outcomes and to contribute evidence for developing effective, scalable, and cost-efficient home-based telerehabilitation models for stroke rehabilitation.
• Stroke either ischemic or hemorrhagic clinically diagnosed or confirmed by MRI or CT.
• Stroke duration between 3 and 24 months.
• Age between 40 and 70 years.
• FMA score of 23-56 out of 66 points on the hemiplegic side.
• Mini mental state examination score greater than 24 out of 30.
• Ability to maintain stable sitting with or without support for at least 30-45 minutes
• No serious auditory, memory or visual impairment.
• Ability to read,understand and follow instructions in urdu.
• Access to a device with internet and video capabilities and basic ability to operate it.
• Availability of a caregiver or a family member to assist during sessions if required.