Use of visual force feedback to improve digit force direction during pinch grip in persons with stroke: a pilot study.

Objective: To investigate whether visual feedback of digit force directions for the index fingertip and thumb tip during repeated practice of grip force production can correct the digit force directions for persons with stroke during grip assessments. Following stroke, the paretic fingers generate digit forces with a higher than normal proportion of shear force to compression force during grip. This misdirected digit force may lead to finger-object slip and failure to stably grasp an object.

Effect of a serotonin antagonist on delay in grip muscle relaxation for persons with chronic hemiparetic stroke.

Objective: To investigate if, following stroke, sustained involuntary activity after voluntary contraction (e.g., grip) of the long finger flexor muscles of the paretic hand is attributable to augmented serotonin release from brainstem pathways, affecting excitability of spastic motoneurons.