In stroke rehabilitation, what should be prioritized based on available evidence?

In stroke rehabilitation, prioritizing constraint-induced therapy is supported by evidence showing its effectiveness in enhancing motor function, particularly among individuals with upper limb impairments. This therapy encourages the use of the affected limb by constraining the unaffected limb, which helps to promote motor learning and neuroplasticity. As patients participate actively in functional tasks while using the affected limb, this approach fosters improvements in strength, coordination, and overall arm movement.

Research indicates that constraint-induced therapy can lead to significant gains in motor recovery when implemented during the rehabilitation process, especially when initiated early after a stroke. The evidence suggests that this therapy not only aids in functional recovery but also engages patients in their rehabilitation, which can boost motivation and adherence to the rehabilitation program.

Other options, while relevant in certain contexts, may not have the same robust support in prioritization for the initial stages of stroke rehabilitation. Immediate mobility training can also be important, but the focus on upper limb recovery through constraint-induced therapy has shown significant benefits in optimizing rehabilitation outcomes. Splinting techniques and pharmacological interventions may play supportive roles, but they do not directly enhance motor recovery to the extent that constraint-induced therapy does according to the prevailing research evidence.