Unilateral versus bilateral upper limb training after stroke: the Upper Limb Training After Stroke clinical trial.

Background And Purpose: Unilateral and bilateral training protocols for upper limb rehabilitation after stroke represent conceptually contrasting approaches with the same ultimate goal. In a randomized controlled trial, we compared the merits of modified constraint-induced movement therapy, modified bilateral arm training with rhythmic auditory cueing, and a dose-matched conventional treatment. Modified constraint-induced movement therapy and modified bilateral arm training with rhythmic auditory cueing targeted wrist and finger extensors, given their importance for functional recovery.

Feasibility and reliability of measuring strength, sprint power, and aerobic capacity in athletes and non-athletes with cerebral palsy.

Aim: The aim of this study was to analyse the feasibility and reliability of the tests used to determine muscle strength, sprint power, and aerobic capacity in athletes and non-athletes with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods: Twenty individuals with spastic CP (four females, 16 males; age range 18-49y; Gross Motor Function Classification System level I, n=15; II, n=5; unilateral CP, n=10; bilateral CP, n=10; athletes, n=12; non-athletes, n=8) participated in the study. Isometric and isokinetic knee flexor and extensor strength, sprint power, and aerobic capacity were determined, using, respectively an isokinetic dynamometer, a Wingate cycling test, and a graded maximal bicycle exercise test, on three occasions.