A new treatment approach for persons with hemiparesis
After a stroke
or brain
injury, regaining your strength and the use of your arm can be an ongoing
challenge. Sister Kenny has a program for people who have had to meet this challenge
and struggle with limited arm function.
The Constraint Induced Movement Therapy Program is designed to improve functional
ability for persons who have had a brain injury or stroke. People who participate
in this therapy can achieve 20 percent to 40 percent improvement in the use of
their affected arm.
Here are some comments heard from participants:
“I use my left hand now like I did before my stroke”
“I scratched my nose with my weak arm without even thinking about it!”
“This is the best thing I’ve ever done.”
“I never thought my arm would get better after 14 years.”
Program participants are required to be:
at least four months post stroke/brain injury
over 16 years old
able to move affected arm
able to voluntarily open hand, at least to some extent
able to communicate your needs, answer questions about your arm and follow
directions for testing
without other serious medical conditions that might influence performance
in activities
The program requires a good deal of self-discipline. It lasts for two weeks and
includes therapy for six hours a day. Participants must wear a restraint device
(mitt) on the non-affected hand for 90 percent of the time they are awake. This
includes time in the clinic, at home, and in the community when it is safe to
do so. Activities and exercises are set up for both home and clinic.
Referrals
A doctor's referral is required to participate in this program. To make a referral
or for more information, call Abbott
Northwestern Hospital at 612-863-7555 or United
Hospital at 651-241-8292.
Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute
800 E. 28th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-863-4200 or toll free 866-880-3550 E-mail us
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