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Rhythmic Initiation vs Isometric Training for Arm Recovery After Stroke
Sponsor: University of Faisalabad
Summary
Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide. Many stroke survivors experience persistent weakness, loss of motor control, and poor coordination in their upper limb, which limits their ability to perform daily activities and return to independent living. This study compares two physical therapy approaches for patients in the subacute stage of stroke recovery (1 to 6 months after stroke). The first approach is Rhythmic Initiation, a technique from Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) that uses smooth, guided movement patterns progressing from passive to active movement. The second approach is Isometric Resistance Training, which involves holding static muscle contractions against resistance without moving the joint. The study will enroll 40 patients aged 40 to 60 years with unilateral upper limb weakness from a first-time stroke. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either Rhythmic Initiation or Isometric Resistance Training for 30 minutes per session, 5 days per week, for 4 weeks. The researchers will measure changes in motor function, muscle strength, coordination, and spasticity before and after the 4-week intervention. The results will help physiotherapists understand which approach is more effective for upper limb rehabilitation in subacute stroke patients.
Official title: Comparative Effects of Rhythmic Initiation and Isometric Resistance Training on Upper Limb Motor Function, Strength, and Coordination in Subacute Stroke Patients
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
40 Years - 60 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2026-01-19
Completion Date
2026-06-24
Last Updated
2026-06-03
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Rhythmic Initiation (PNF technique)
What: Rhythmic Initiation technique from PNF. How: Therapist guides patient's affected upper limb through a four-step sequence-passive movement (therapist moves limb), active-assistive movement (patient helps with therapist assistance), active movement (patient moves independently), and light resisted movement (therapist adds gentle resistance). The movement follows PNF diagonal pattern D1 (flexion-adduction-external rotation to extension-abduction-internal rotation) or D2. Verbal cues emphasize smooth, rhythmic motion. When: 30 minutes per session, 5 days per week. How long: 4 weeks total. By whom: Trained physical therapist. Where: Outpatient rehabilitation department.
Isometric Resistance Training
What: Isometric Resistance Training (static muscle contractions without joint movement). How: Patient contracts target muscle against resistance provided by therapist or stationary object. Target muscles include shoulder abductors, elbow flexors, elbow extensors, wrist flexors, and wrist extensors. Each contraction held 6-10 seconds at 60-70% of maximum voluntary contraction. Patient performs 10 repetitions per muscle group, completing 3 sets. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets. When: 30 minutes per session, 5 days per week. How long: 4 weeks total. By whom: Trained physical therapist. Where: Outpatient rehabilitation department.
Locations (1)
The University of Faisalabad
Faisalābad, Punjab Province, Pakistan