Can stroke patients use visual analogue scales?

Validation of general pain scores from multidomain assessment tools in stroke

Purpose

We describe how well general pain reported in multidomain assessment tools correlated with pain-specific assessment tools; associations between general pain, activities of daily living and independence after stroke.

Materials and methods

Analyses of individual participant data (IPD) from the Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive (VISTA) described correlation coefficients examining (i) direct comparisons of assessments from pain-specific and multidomain assessment tools that included pain, (ii) indirect comparisons of pain assessments with the Barthel Index (BI) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and (iii) whether pain identification could be enhanced by accounting for reported usual activities, self-care, mobility and anxiety/depression; factors associated with pain.

Results

European Quality of Life 3- and 5-Level (EQ-5D-3L and EQ-5D-5L), RAND 36 Item Health Survey 1.0 (SF-36) or the 0-10 Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) were available from 10/94 studies (IPD = 10,002). The 0-10 NPRS was the only available pain-specific assessment tool and was a reference for comparison with other tools. Pearson correlation coefficients between the 0-10 NPRS and (A) the EQ-5D-3L and (B) EQ5D-5 L were r = 0.572 (n = 436) and r = 0.305 (n = 1,134), respectively. mRS was better aligned with pain by EQ-5D-3L (n = 8,966; r = 0.340) than by SF-36 (n = 623; r = 0.318). BI aligned better with pain by SF-36 (n = 623; r = -0.320). Creating a composite score using the EQ-5D 3 L and 5 L comprising pain, mobility, usual-activities, self-care and anxiety/depression did not improve correlation with the 0-10 NPRS.

Discussion

The EQ-5D-3L pain domain aligned better than the EQ-5D-5L with the 0-10 NPRS and may inform general pain description where resources and assessment burden hinder use of additional, pain-specific assessments.

An investigation of upper extremity function, sleep quality, and functional independence in patients with poststroke shoulder pain: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Poststroke shoulder pain (PSSP) is a common poststroke complication. Even though it is a common phenomenon, it is unclear how it impacts the patient's life.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the differences in upper extremity function, sleep quality, and functional independence between patients with and without PSSP.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 63 participants with stroke (32 patients with PSSP and 31 patients without PSSP). Shoulder pain was evaluated with a Visual Analog Scale and the participants were divided into two groups as those with and without PSSP. The upper extremity function was assessed with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire, the Arm Motor Ability Test, and the Nine Hole Peg Test. Sleep quality was assessed with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the functional independence was assessed with the Functional Independence Measure. All data were analyzed using the program IBM SPSS Statistics 22.0. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the non-normally distributed parameters, and the Chi-square test was used to compare the ordinal variables. The Spearman correlation test was used for the relationship and a linear regression test was used for regression.

RESULTS

Upper extremity function decreased (p < .05), only the sleep disturbance sub-parameter of sleep quality increased (p = .01), and functional independence increased in patients with PSSP (p < .001). There was a moderate relationship between pain and upper extremity function and a fair relationship between pain and sleep quality (use of sleep medications, daytime dysfunction sub-parameters) (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

PSSP impairs upper extremity functions, which play an important role in activities of daily living, and reduces functional independence. These results suggest that it is important to evaluate shoulder pain and examine the factors affecting pain in the rehabilitation of patients with stroke.

Neuroimaging prognostic factors for treatment response to motor imagery training after stroke

The efficacy of motor imagery training for motor recovery is well acknowledged, but with substantial inter-individual variability in stroke patients. To help optimize motor imagery training therapy plans and screen suitable patients, this study aimed to explore neuroimaging biomarkers explaining variability in treatment response. Thirty-nine stroke patients were randomized to a motor imagery training group (n = 22, received a combination of conventional rehabilitation therapy and motor imagery training) and a control group (n = 17, received conventional rehabilitation therapy and health education) for 4 weeks of interventions. Their demography and clinical information, brain lesion from structural MRI, spontaneous brain activity and connectivity from rest fMRI, and sensorimotor brain activation from passive motor task fMRI were acquired to identify prognostic factors. We found that the variability of outcomes from sole conventional rehabilitation therapy could be explained by the reserved sensorimotor neural function, whereas the variability of outcomes from motor imagery training + conventional rehabilitation therapy was related to the spontaneous activity in the ipsilesional inferior parietal lobule and the local connectivity in the contralesional supplementary motor area. The results suggest that additional motor imagery training treatment is also efficient for severe patients with damaged sensorimotor neural function, but might be more effective for patients with impaired motor planning and reserved motor imagery.

Measures of Maximal Tactile Pressures during a Sustained Grasp Task Using a TactArray Device Have Satisfactory Reliability and Concurrent Validity in People with Stroke

Sensor-based devices can record pressure or force over time during grasping and therefore offer a more comprehensive approach to quantifying grip strength during sustained contractions. The objectives of this study were to investigate the reliability and concurrent validity of measures of maximal tactile pressures and forces during a sustained grasp task using a TactArray device in people with stroke. Participants with stroke (n = 11) performed three trials of sustained maximal grasp over 8 s. Both hands were tested in within- and between-day sessions, with and without vision. Measures of maximal tactile pressures and forces were measured for the complete (8 s) grasp duration and plateau phase (5 s). Tactile measures are reported using the highest value among three trials, the mean of two trials, and the mean of three trials. Reliability was determined using changes in mean, coefficients of variation, and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Pearson correlation coefficients were used to evaluate concurrent validity. This study found that measures of reliability assessed by changes in means were good, coefficients of variation were good to acceptable, and ICCs were very good for maximal tactile pressures using the average pressure of the mean of three trials over 8 s in the affected hand with and without vision for within-day sessions and without vision for between-day sessions. In the less affected hand, changes in mean were very good, coefficients of variations were acceptable, and ICCs were good to very good for maximal tactile pressures using the average pressure of the mean of three trials over 8 s and 5 s, respectively, in between-day sessions with and without vision. Maximal tactile pressures had moderate correlations with grip strength. The TactArray device demonstrates satisfactory reliability and concurrent validity for measures of maximal tactile pressures in people with stroke.

Managing painful shoulder after neurological injury

Shoulder pain is common after neurological injury and can be disabling, lead to poor functional outcomes and increase care costs. Its cause is multifactoral and several pathologies contribute to the presentation. Astute diagnostic skills and a multidisciplinary approach are required to recognise what is clinically relevant and to implement appropriate stepwise management. In the absence of large clinical trial data, we aim to provide a comprehensive, practical and pragmatic overview of shoulder pain in patients with neurological conditions. We use available evidence to produce a management guideline, taking into account specialty opinions from neurology, rehabilitation medicine, orthopaedics and physiotherapy.

E-learning is a burden for the deaf and hard of hearing

When considering deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) population, research recognizes that fatigue due to communication challenges and multi-focal attention allocation is a significant concern. Given the putative heightened demands of distance learning on deaf and hard of hearing students, we investigate how an online environment might differently affect deaf and hard of hearing participants, compared to hearing participants, Portuguese Sign Language (PSL) users and non-users. Our findings show that the deaf and hard of hearing group present higher values in the post-task fatigue rates with significant differences from the hearing group (non-PSL users). Furthermore, our results revealed an association between post-task fatigue rates and lower performance scores for the deaf and hard of hearing group, and the gap is significantly bigger when compared with the hearing group (non-PSL users). We also found evidence for high levels of post-task fatigue and lower performance scores in the hearing group PSL users. These novel data contribute to the discussion concerning of the pros and cons of digital migration and help redesign more accessible and equitable methodologies and approaches, especially in the DHH educational field, ultimately supporting policymakers in redefining optimal learning strategies.

Assessing Self-Reported Mood in Aphasia Following Stroke: Challenges, Innovations and Future Directions

Assessment of mood is critical in determining rehabilitation outcomes for stroke and other acquired brain injury, yet a common consequence of such injuries is aphasia, where language is impaired. Consequently, the use of language-based measures in this population is often not possible. Following a critical review of the neuropsychological aspects of self-reported mood, this paper evaluates the problems in reporting mood after stroke due to aphasia, and discusses implications for the design of adapted instruments. The paper then appraises the construction and psychometric properties of existing, adapted self-report measures developed to try and address these problems, and evaluates their utility and limitations. This includes a focus on the recently validated tablet-based Dynamic Visual Analog Mood Scales (D-VAMS), which uses innovative non-verbal assessment methods based on facial expression modulated via a slider control on a touchscreen interface. Currently, most studies evaluating recovery interventions simply omit individuals with aphasia because of the difficulty of assessing mood and quality of life in this population. However, adapted scales such as the D-VAMS appear to represent an important step forward in assessing mood in people with language impairments, with the use of interactive modulated imagery having wider applications for nonverbal communication as well as the quantification of subjective phenomena.

Effect of kinesio taping on hemiplegic shoulder pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of kinesio taping for the management of hemiplegic shoulder pain.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CENTRAL, CNKI, Wan Fang databases and the grey literature research were searched from inception to July 2020.

METHODS

We considered randomized controlled trials in English or Chinese that used kinesio taping for the treatment of hemiplegic shoulder pain. Two reviewers independently screened the articles, scored the methodological quality using the PEDro scale, assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane's risk of bias tool and extracted the data. The outcomes included pain, motor function of the upper limb, magnitude of shoulder subluxation and activities of daily living post-intervention.

RESULTS

A total of nine studies (n = 424) met the inclusion criteria. A meta-analysis demonstrated a significant effect of kinesio taping on pain (mean difference(MD)= -1.45, 95% confidence interval(CI): -1.98 to-0.92 cm, p < 0.0001), motor function of upper limb (MD = 4.22,95%CI: 3.49 to 4.95, p < 0.00001), magnitude of shoulder subluxation (standardized mean difference(SMD) = -0.65, 95%CI: -0.95 to -0.35, p < 0.0001) and activities of daily living (MD = 6.86, 95% CI: 3.99 to 9.73, p < 0.00001) post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggests a beneficial effect of kinesio taping for reducing shoulder subluxation, improving motor function of the upper limb and activities of daily living in patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain post-intervention, which could not be interpreted simply as a placebo effect. And it was associated with reduced pain for patients with chronic stroke.

Combination Therapy for Treatment of Spasticity in Stroke Patients: A Case Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Spasticity is a disorder of sensory-motor control that appears as an effect of a lesion in the upper motor neuron and demonstrates sustained or intermittent unintentional muscle activation. Many treatment interventions exist to treat spasticity, and in this study, three of them were combined: vibration, static positioning and transcutaneous nerve stimulation (TENS). Evidence exists regarding the application of each intervention per se, but not in combination. Hence, the aim of the study is to present an innovative treatment approach for spasticity and show the effects it produced on one patient.

METHODS

The study was a case report. The subject was a 31-year-old male patient who had ischemic stroke a year ago. He demonstrated severe plantar flexion of the left foot due to spasticity. There was a baseline assessment and measurement, one on the end of the intervention (10^th week) and a follow-up 8 months after it. Assessment and measurement tools: a dynamic gait analysis on the treadmill by Zebris FDM-T system, electromyography testing (F-wave parameter and stretch reflex activity), the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), a standard goniometer, the Motricity index (MI) leg score and a pain dichotomous when stretching and while at rest.

INTERVENTION

The intervention lasted 10 weeks, 5 days per week for 30 minutes. The patient was standing on a 30-degree-inclination wedge. The wedge was positioned on a whole-body vibrator set to vibrate with 91Hz of frequency and 1.0mm amplitude. TENS was offered through surface electrodes which were placed on the tibialis anterior and triceps surae muscles, along the sural nerve (impulse frequency: 100Hz, pulse width: 250μs, intensity: 30mA).

RESULTS

The range of motion and the MI was increased and the swing-phase of the right foot as well as the standing-phase of the left foot were increased an hour after the intervention. The results were slightly diminished a day and a week after the intervention but a statistically significant improvement still remained.

CONCLUSION

Combination therapy intervention could offer an alternative for treating spasticity. Further studies are needed to establish a treatment protocol and maybe combine other spasticity-centered treatment modalities in order to produce new interventions.

The EmojiGrid as a rating tool for the affective appraisal of touch

In this study we evaluate the convergent validity of a new graphical self-report tool (the EmojiGrid) for the affective appraisal of perceived touch events. The EmojiGrid is a square grid labeled with facial icons (emoji) showing different levels of valence and arousal. The EmojiGrid is language independent and efficient (a single click suffices to report both valence and arousal), making it a practical instrument for studies on affective appraisal. We previously showed that participants can intuitively and reliably report their affective appraisal (valence and arousal) of visual, auditory and olfactory stimuli using the EmojiGrid, even without additional (verbal) instructions. However, because touch events can be bidirectional and dynamic, these previous results cannot be generalized to the touch domain. In this study, participants reported their affective appraisal of video clips showing different interpersonal (social) and object-based touch events, using either the validated 9-point SAM (Self-Assessment Mannikin) scale or the EmojiGrid. The valence ratings obtained with the EmojiGrid and the SAM are in excellent agreement. The arousal ratings show good agreement for object-based touch and moderate agreement for social touch. For social touch and at more extreme levels of valence, the EmojiGrid appears more sensitive to arousal than the SAM. We conclude that the EmojiGrid can also serve as a valid and efficient graphical self-report instrument to measure human affective response to a wide range of tactile signals.

Properties of Pain Assessment Tools for Use in People Living With Stroke: Systematic Review

Background: Pain is a common problem after stroke and is associated with poor outcomes. There is no consensus on the optimal method of pain assessment in stroke. A review of the properties of tools should allow an evidence based approach to assessment.

Objectives: We aimed to systematically review published data on pain assessment tools used in stroke, with particular focus on classical test properties of: validity, reliability, feasibility, responsiveness.

Methods: We searched multiple, cross-disciplinary databases for studies evaluating properties of pain assessment tools used in stroke. We assessed risk of bias using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool. We used a modified harvest plot to visually represent psychometric properties across tests.

Results: The search yielded 12 relevant articles, describing 10 different tools (n = 1,106 participants). There was substantial heterogeneity and an overall high risk of bias. The most commonly assessed property was validity (eight studies) and responsiveness the least (one study). There were no studies with a neuropathic or headache focus. Included tools were either scales or questionnaires. The most commonly assessed tool was the Faces Pain Scale (FPS) (6 studies). The limited number of papers precluded meaningful meta-analysis at level of pain assessment tool or pain syndrome. Even where common data were available across papers, results were conflicting e.g., two papers described FPS as feasible and two described the scale as having feasibility issues.

Conclusion: Robust data on the properties of pain assessment tools for stroke are limited. Our review highlights specific areas where evidence is lacking and could guide further research to identify the best tool(s) for assessing post-stroke pain. Improving feasibility of assessment in stroke survivors should be a future research target.

Systematic Review Registration Number: PROSPERO CRD42019160679

Available online at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42019160679.

Effectiveness of dry needling for upper extremity spasticity, quality of life and function in subacute phase stroke patients

BACKGROUND

Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in Europe, represents one of the most common causes of disability in adult patients, and involves considerable short- and long-term social and healthcare costs. The effectiveness of deep dry needling (DDN) on affected arm functionality was assessed throughout 8 weeks of treatment in patients with stroke in the subacute phase.

METHODS

Eighty patients were included in this two-group non-randomised study after a propensity score analysis was carried out. Both groups received standard physiotherapy treatment on the affected arm. The needling group also received six sessions of DDN during the 8-week period. Patients were evaluated before and after each session using the Fugl-Meyer upper extremity (FM UE) scale, the modified modified Ashworth scale (MMAS), the resistance to passive movement scale (REPAS) and a 10-point numeric pain rating scale (NPRS 10). The Brunnstrom recovery stage was recorded at the beginning and at the end of the study, and the EuroQoL quality of life survey was completed at the beginning of the study, after the first month of treatment and at the end of the study.

RESULTS

Patients treated with DDN showed a reduction in spasticity measured using the REPAS (p < 0.001) and the MMAS (p < 0.05). There was also an improvement in the Brunnstrom recovery stages (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The addition of a specific DDN treatment to a standard physiotherapy treatment appeared to lead to a higher reduction in spasticity in the affected arm; however, it did not provide additional changes in functionality, pain and quality of life. Further studies with a randomised controlled trial design are required to confirm our findings.

Additional early active repetitive motor training did not prevent contracture in adults receiving task-specific upper limb training after stroke: a randomised trial

QUESTION

In adults undergoing rehabilitation after stroke, does 1 hour of additional active repetitive reaching per day prevent or reduce upper limb contracture?

DESIGN

Multi-centre, randomised controlled trial with concealed allocation, assessor blinding, and intention-to-treat analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty adults undergoing rehabilitation after stroke who were unable to actively extend the affected wrist past neutral or were unable to flex the affected shoulder to 90 deg.

SETTING

Three inpatient rehabilitation units in Australia.

INTERVENTION

Both groups received usual upper limb therapy 5 days a week for 5 weeks. In addition, the experimental group received up to 1 hour a day of active, intensive, repetitive upper limb training using the SMART Arm device 5 days a week for 5 weeks.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Measures were collected at baseline (Week 0), after intervention (Week 5) and at follow-up (Week 7). The primary outcomes were passive range of wrist extension, elbow extension, and shoulder flexion at Week 5. The secondary outcomes were: the three primary outcomes measured at Week 7; passive range of shoulder external rotation; arm function; and pain at rest, on movement and during sleep measured at Weeks 5 and 7.

RESULTS

Following an average of 2310 reaching repetitions, the mean effect at Week 5 on passive range of wrist extension was 1 deg (95% CI -6 to 8), elbow extension -6 deg (95% CI -12 to -1), and shoulder flexion 5 deg (95% CI -8 to 17). There were no statistically significant or clinically important effects of the intervention on any secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSION

In adults who are already receiving task-specific motor training for upper limb rehabilitation following stroke, 5 weeks of up to 1 hour of additional daily active repetitive motor training using the SMART Arm device did not prevent or reduce contracture in upper limb muscles.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12614001162606.

Characteristics of the shoulder in patients following acute stroke: a case series

BACKGROUND

Stroke can result in pain and loss of motor control in the hemiplegic shoulder, and while prevention of secondary changes is likely to be the most effective management, there is limited evidence directing clinicians towards the most at-risk patients.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this case series was to investigate the presentation of shoulder pain, motor impairment, shoulder passive range of motion (PROM) and alignment of the hemiplegic shoulder following acute stroke.

METHODS

This study reported data that was collected as part of a pilot randomized controlled trial investigating kinesiology taping of the hemiplegic shoulder. Participants with a diagnosis of acute stroke and severe upper limb motor impairment were included. From 24-h post stroke and continuing every three days until discharge, measurements of shoulder pain (visual analogue scale, Ritchie Articular Index), motor impairment (Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment), PROM and alignment (both clinical measures) were collected. Clinical trial registry number - ACTRN12615000502538.

RESULTS

Of 156 patients screened over six months, 10 of 15 eligible participants were recruited. On initial assessment, three participants reported pain and all had severe upper limb motor impairment. All participants initially demonstrated close to full shoulder PROM. Six participants had shoulder subluxation and five demonstrated scapula malalignment.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the severity of upper limb motor impairment, pain and reduced PROM were seen in a small number of participants. The clinical course of shoulder pain and PROM following stroke remains unclear. Large observational studies tracking shoulder characteristics from acute through to rehabilitation settings are needed.

Identification of Affective State Change in Adults With Aphasia Using Speech Acoustics

Purpose

The current study aimed to identify objective acoustic measures related to affective state change in the speech of adults with post-stroke aphasia.

Method

The speech of 20 post-stroke adults with aphasia was recorded during picture description and administration of the Western Aphasia Battery-Revised (Kertesz, 2006). In addition, participants completed the Self-Assessment Manikin (Bradley & Lang, 1994) and the Stress Scale (Tobii Dynavox, 1981-2016) before and after the language tasks. Speech from each participant was used to detect a change in affective state test scores between the beginning and ending speech.

Results

Machine learning revealed moderate success in classifying depression, minimal success in predicting depression and stress numeric scores, and minimal success in classifying changes in affective state class between the beginning and ending speech.

Conclusions

The results suggest the existence of objectively measurable aspects of speech that may be used to identify changes in acute affect from adults with aphasia. This work is exploratory and hypothesis-generating; more work will be needed to make conclusive claims. Further work in this area could lead to automated tools to assist clinicians with their diagnoses of stress, depression, and other forms of affect in adults with aphasia.

Experimental pain assessment in patients with poststroke aphasia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate an observational-behavioral pain tool among individuals with acute poststroke aphasia.

METHODS

We performed a randomized, double-blind, controlled study of experimental pain assessment among 36 adult patients with acute poststroke aphasia. Patients were administered 3 levels of mechanical pain, including placebo. The behavioral responses were video recorded and then evaluated by 3 neurology nurses using the Pain Assessment Checklist for Seniors With Limited Ability to Communicate (PACSLAC-II). Pain-specific facial action units were quantified with FaceReader version 6.1.

RESULTS

Median PACSLAC-II ratings for 0-, 2-, and 4.5-lb weight stimuli were 2 (0, 3), 1 (0, 3), and 2 (1, 5), respectively. Overall, differences were not detected (p = 0.06). Pairwise comparisons with the Wilcoxon method demonstrated significance in differentiating PACSLAC-II ratings of patients experiencing the 4.5-lb stimulus vs either the 2-lb weight (p = 0.03) or placebo (p = 0.05). Overall interrater reliability by the Cronbach α was strong at 0.87, 0.94, and 0.96 for weights of 0, 2, and 4.5 lb, respectively. Pain-specific facial activation and negative valence were observed similarly in placebo and experimental pain groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among our cohort with acute poststroke aphasia, the PACSLAC-II was not able to overall differentiate patients experiencing experimental mechanical pain, although differences in those experiencing the strongest pain stimulus were significant. The detection of pain-specific facial activation and negative valence in the placebo group indicates that pain and distress are unmet needs among stroke patients who are unable to verbally communicate.

A retrospective case series of ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve pulsed radiofrequency treatment for hemiplegic shoulder pain in patients with chronic stroke

Purpose

Hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) is the most common pain condition after stroke. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment of the suprascapular nerve (SSN) effectively relieves shoulder pain conditions. To date, there is no study about the effects of PRF treatment for HSP. Thus, our aim was to report on a case series about its use in chronic stroke.

Patients and methods

Six chronic stroke patients with HSP (visual analog scale [VAS] score for pain ≥30 mm) underwent ultrasound-guided SSN PRF treatment. All were evaluated before treatment and at 4 and 16 weeks of follow-up. The main outcome was VAS score. Secondary outcomes were Modified Ashworth Scale, shoulder passive range of motion (PROM), Disability Assessment Scale (DAS), Fugl-Meyer Assessment, and EuroQol-5 dimension questionnaire (EuroQol-5D) scores.

Results

As compared with baseline, improvement was observed in the following parameters: VAS for pain (at 4 weeks, P=0.023; at 16 weeks, P=0.023); shoulder PROM for abduction (at 4 weeks, P=0.023; at 16 weeks, P=0.024), flexion (at 4 and 16 weeks, P=0.024), extension (at 4 and 16 weeks, P=0.02), and external rotation (4 and 16 weeks, P=0.02); DAS for hygiene (at 4 and 16 weeks, P=0.024), dressing (at 4 weeks, P=0.02; at 16 weeks, P=0.024), and pain (at 4 weeks, P=0.024; at 16 weeks, P=0.023); and EuroQol-5D (at 4 and 16 weeks, P=0.024).

Conclusion

Our observations support the use of ultrasound-guided SSN PRF treatment for HSP in chronic stroke patients.

Sensitivity and specificity of the Akena Visual Depression Inventory (AViDI-18) in Kampala (Uganda) and Cape Town (South Africa)

BACKGROUND

Visual scales may be particularly useful in screening for depression in patients with low literacy. However, few have been validated and none are in common use.AimModification and validation of a visual scale to screen for depression in low literacy settings.

METHOD

We assessed the validity, reliability and factor loading of a 28-item visual depression inventory using pictorial items depicting depression signs and symptoms. We validated a revised scale comprised of 18 items known as the Akena Visual Depression Inventory (AViDI-18) against a structured diagnostic interview (Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Inventory) in 343 patients in Kampala (Uganda) and Cape Town (South Africa).

RESULTS

The 18 pictorial items had acceptable validity and reliability. The area under the curve (AUC) score of the AViDI-18 was 0.9. AUC scores were not significantly associated with sociodemographic variables.

CONCLUSION

The AViDI-18 is a valid screen for depression in patients with low literacy.Declaration of interestNone.

Effect of EMG-triggered neuromuscular electrical stimulation with bilateral arm training on hemiplegic shoulder pain and arm function after stroke: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Hemiplegic shoulder pain is a frequent complication after stroke, leading to limited use of the affected arm. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) are two widely used interventions to reduce pain, but the comparative efficacy of these two modalities remains uncertain. The purpose of this research was to compare the immediate and retained effects of EMG-triggered NMES and TENS, both in combination with bilateral arm training, on hemiplegic shoulder pain and arm function of stroke patients.

METHODS

A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted at two medical centers. Thirty-eight patients (25 males and 13 females, 60.75 ± 10.84 years old, post stroke duration 32.68 ± 53.07 months) who had experienced a stroke more than 3 months ago at the time of recruitment and hemiplegic shoulder pain were randomized to EMG-triggered NMES or TENS. Both groups received electrical stimulation followed by bilateral arm training 3 times a week for 4 weeks. The primary outcome measures included a vertical Numerical Rating Scale supplemented with a Faces Rating Scale, and the short form of the Brief Pain Inventory. The secondary outcome measures were the upper-limb subscale of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, and pain-free passive shoulder range of motion. All outcomes were measured pretreatment, post-treatment, and at 1-month after post-treatment. Two-way mixed repeated measures ANOVAs were used to examine treatment effects.

RESULTS

Compared to TENS with bilateral arm training, the EMG-triggered NMES with bilateral arm training was associated with lower pain intensity during active and passive shoulder movement (P =0.007, P =0.008), lower worst pain intensity (P = 0.003), and greater pain-free passive shoulder abduction (P =0.001) and internal rotation (P =0.004) at follow-up. Both groups improved in pain at rest (P =0.02), pain interference with daily activities, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, and pain-free passive shoulder flexion and external rotation post-treatment (P < 0.001) and maintained the improvement at follow-up (P < 0.001), except for resting pain (P =0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

EMG-triggered NMES with bilateral arm training exhibited greater immediate and retained effects than TENS with bilateral arm training with respect to pain and shoulder impairment for chronic and subacute stroke patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01913509 .

Suprascapular nerve block for the treatment of hemiplegic shoulder pain in patients with long-term chronic stroke: a pilot study

Hemiplegic shoulder pain is the most common pain condition after stroke. Suprascapular nerve block is an effective treatment for shoulder pain. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of suprascapular nerve block on pain intensity, spasticity, shoulder passive range of motion, and quality of life in long-term chronic stroke patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain. Ten chronic stroke patients (over 2 years from onset) with hemiplegic shoulder pain graded ≥30 mm on the Visual Analogue Scale underwent suprascapular nerve block injection with 1 mL of 40 mg/mL methylprednisolone and 10 mL 0.5% bupivacaine hydrochloride. Main outcome was the Visual Analogue Scale evaluated before and after nerve block at 1 h, 1 week, and 1 month. Secondary outcomes were the modified Ashworth scale and the shoulder elevation, abduction, and external rotation passive range of motion evaluated before the nerve block and after 1 h as well as the American Chronic Pain Association Quality of Life Scale evaluated before and after nerve block at 1 month. The Visual Analogue Scale significantly improved after nerve block at 1 h (P = 0.005) and 1 week (P = 0.011). Significant improvements were found at 1 h after nerve block in the modified Ashworth scale (P = 0.014) and the passive range of motion of shoulder abduction (P = 0.026), flexion (P = 0.007), and external rotation (P = 0.017). The American Chronic Pain Association Quality of Life Scale significantly improved at 1 month after nerve block (P = 0.046). Our findings support the use of suprascapular nerve block for treating hemiplegic shoulder pain in long-term chronic stroke patients.

Incidence, Time Course and Predictors of Impairments Relating to Caring for the Profoundly Affected arm After Stroke: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

A significant number of stroke survivors will not recover the use of their affected arm. A proportion will experience pain, stiffness and difficulty with basic care activities. The purpose of the review was to identify predictors of difficulty caring for the profoundly affected arm and establish the incidence and time-course of the related impairments of pain, spasticity and contracture.

METHOD

Data sources: Databases (PubMED, MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register) were searched from inception to December 2013. Additional studies were identified from citation tracking.

REVIEW METHODS

Independent reviewers used pre-defined criteria to identify eligible studies. Quality assessment and risk of bias were assessed using the McMasters Assessment Tool. A narrative evidence synthesis was performed.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine articles reporting 34 studies were included. No studies formally measured difficulty caring for the arm, but related impairments were common. Incidence of spasticity in those with weakness ranged from 33% to 78%, shoulder pain affected 22% to 90% and contracture was present in at least 50%. Spasticity and pain appear within 1 week of stroke, and contracture within two weeks. Impairments continued to develop over at least 3-6 months. The most frequent predictors of spasticity and contracture were weakness and reduced motor control, and the risk of pain is most commonly predicted by reduced sensation, shoulder subluxation, weakness and stroke severity.

DISCUSSION

There is no published evidence on predicting the likelihood of difficulty caring for the arm following stroke. However, the related impairments of spasticity, pain and contracture are common. Given the time-course of development, clinicians may need not only to intervene early but also be prepared to act over a longer time period. Further research is needed to examine difficulty caring for the arm and the relationship with associated impairments to enable researchers and clinicians to develop targeted interventions. © 2015 The Authors. Physiotheraphy Research International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Validation of international stroke scales for use by nurses in Greek settings

BACKGROUND

Improving stroke outcomes by educating nurses in state-of-the-art stroke nursing skills is essential, but unfortunately, to date, there are limited validated stroke assessment scales for routine clinical and research use in Greece.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to validate and culturally adapt three internationally recognised stroke scales for use in Greece.

METHODS

A critical appraisal of the international literature was undertaken to identify suitable scales to assess stroke impact: neurological, functional status and level of dependence. We identified: Scandinavian Stroke Scale (SSS), Barthel Index (BI) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS). They were formally translated and culturally adapted from English to Greek. Their validity was tested using Cronbach's alpha and Median Discrimination Index, while construct validity was checked by Principal Component Analysis (PCA). These were used on 57 consecutively selected patients with stroke from a Greek hospital, mean age 67.7 (±6.7 SD) years, range 54-85 years, length of stay, 8.5 (±2.7 SD) days.

RESULTS

All three scales show high internal consistency. The Cronbach's α on admission/ discharge for the SSS ranged from 0.86 to 0.88. The BI's reliability ranged from 0.95 to 0.93. The Median Discrimination Index was 0.70 (SSS) and 0.83 (BI). PCA showed that although a significant general factor (F1) explains most of the variance (57.0% on admission and 56.4% on discharge) a second factor (F2) of less significance was also highlighted. The convergent validity of the three scales was confirmed.

DISCUSSION

The stroke tools selected showed high reliability and validity, thus making these suitable for use in Greek clinical/academic environments. All three scales used are almost routinely undertaken in stroke studies internationally and form a backdrop for bio-statistical, functional and social outcome post-stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

The Greek version of the stroke tools show that both SSS and BI have high internal consistency and reliability and together with the mRS could be used in any Greek stroke care delivery setting.

Identifying depression post-stroke in patients with aphasia: a systematic review of the reliability, validity and feasibility of available instruments

Objective:

To identify and critically appraise the evidence for instruments assessing depression in stroke patients with aphasia.

Methods:

The PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Psych Info and Cochrane databases were searched from inception until May 2015.

Results:

Of the 383 titles found in the search, 15 articles met the inclusion criteria and six instruments were identified: The Aphasic Depression Rating Scale, the Clinical Global Impression-Scale, the Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire (four versions), the Signs of Depression Scale, the Visual Analogue Mood Scale (three versions) and the Visual Analogue Self Esteem Scale. Supporting evidence for reliability and validity was limited owing to methodological flaws in the studies influencing the ratings of methodological quality. Feasibility data were available for all instruments. Rating time of the instruments ranged from less than one minute to five minutes, two instruments required extensive training.

Conclusion:

A number of instruments to assess depressive symptoms in patients with aphasia are available. None of the instruments however, were found to be sufficiently investigated and most of the studies identified were of low methodological quality. Given the present evidence, the Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire-10, the Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire-H10 and the Signs of Depression Scale are the most feasible and can be recommended for clinical practice.

Reliability and validity of a postal version of the Reintegration to Normal Living Index, modified for use with stroke patients

Objective: To adapt the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI) for postal use with stroke patients.

Design: Reliability was examined using test–retest on 26 stroke patients. Construct validity was tested on 76 patients by examining correlations between the modified RNLI and related scales.

Subjects: Patients at three months to one year post stroke.

Results: All items demonstrated better than chance agreement between test and retest and seven items substantial agreement (kappa= >0.61). The modified RNLI correlated positively with related scales. Patients with stronger reintegration to normal living had better outcomes in anxiety, depression, daily activity and quality of life.

Conclusion: This postal instrument appears reliable and valid and may be a useful outcome measure in stroke studies.

Percutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation (P-NMES) for treating shoulder pain in chronic hemiplegia. Effects on shoulder pain and quality of life

Objective: To evaluate the effect of percutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation (P-NMES) of the shoulder muscles on shoulder pain intensity and health-related quality of life in chronic hemiplegia.

Design: Prospective, open label design.

Setting: The outpatient services of a large teaching rehabilitation hospital in the Netherlands.

Subjects: Fifteen stroke survivors with chronic (> six months) hemiplegia and a therapy-resistant painful shoulder with subluxation. All patients suffered from clinically relevant shoulder pain, as assessed by a score of at least 4 out of 10 on a numerical rating scale. Shoulder subluxation was indicated by at least 1/2 fingerbreadth of glenohumeral separation on palpation.

Intervention: Six hours of P-NMES per day for a total of six weeks.

Main outcome measures: Shoulder pain (Brief Pain Inventory), shoulder subluxation (clinical and radiographic), shoulder pain-free external rotation (hand-held goniometer), motor impairment (Fugl-Meyer Motor test) and quality of life (SF-36) were assessed before treatment, after six weeks of intramuscular stimulation, at three months and six months follow-up.

Results: A significant reduction in pain was found on the Brief Pain Inventory. Pain reduction was still present at six months follow-up. All domains, in particular bodily pain, of the SF-36 showed improvement in the short term. After six months of follow-up, bodily pain was still strongly and significantly reduced, whereas social functioning and role physical demonstrated a nonsignificant improvement of more than 10% compared with baseline.

Conclusion: This pilot suggests that P-NMES potentially reduces shoulder pain in chronic hemiplegia. To establish the clinical value of P-NMES in treating hemiplegic shoulder pain a randomized controlled trial is needed.

Thalamic pain: anatomical and physiological indices of prediction

Thalamic pain is a severe and treatment-resistant type of central pain that may develop after thalamic stroke. Lesions within the ventrocaudal regions of the thalamus carry the highest risk to develop pain, but its emergence in individual patients remains impossible to predict. Because damage to the spino-thalamo-cortical system is a crucial factor in the development of central pain, in this study we combined detailed anatomical atlas-based mapping of thalamic lesions and assessment of spinothalamic integrity using quantitative sensory analysis and laser-evoked potentials in 42 thalamic stroke patients, of whom 31 had developed thalamic pain. More than 97% of lesions involved an area between 2 and 7 mm above the anterior-posterior commissural plane. Although most thalamic lesions affected several nuclei, patients with central pain showed maximal lesion convergence on the anterior pulvinar nucleus (a major spinothalamic target) while the convergence area lay within the ventral posterior lateral nucleus in pain-free patients. Both involvement of the anterior pulvinar nucleus and spinothalamic dysfunction (nociceptive thresholds, laser-evoked potentials) were significantly associated with the development of thalamic pain, whereas involvement of ventral posterior lateral nucleus and lemniscal dysfunction (position sense, graphaesthesia, pallaesthesia, stereognosis, standard somatosensory potentials) were similarly distributed in patients with or without pain. A logistic regression model combining spinothalamic dysfunction and anterior pulvinar nucleus involvement as regressors had 93% sensitivity and 87% positive predictive value for thalamic pain. Lesion of spinothalamic afferents to the posterior thalamus appears therefore determinant to the development of central pain after thalamic stroke. Sorting out of patients at different risks of developing thalamic pain may be achievable at the individual level by combining lesion localization and functional investigation of the spinothalamic system. As the methods proposed here do not need complex manipulations, they can be added to routine patients' work up, and the results replicated by other investigators in the field.

Reliability and validity of a vertical numerical rating scale supplemented with a faces rating scale in measuring fatigue after stroke

Background

Poststroke fatigue is a persistent and distressing symptom among stroke survivors. In this study, we investigated the reliability and validity of a vertical numerical rating scale supplemented with a faces rating scale (NRS-FRS) in measuring poststroke fatigue.

Methods

The fatigue intensity of 106 individuals with stroke was measured twice, 1 week apart, using a vertical NRS-FRS to measure test-retest reliability. The intraclass correlation coefficient, a relative reliability index, was calculated to examine the degree of consistency and agreement between the two test occasions. Absolute reliability indices, including the standard error of measurement, minimal detectable change, and Bland-Altman limits of agreement, were used to quantify measurement errors and determine systematic biases of the two test occasions. We also administered the vertical NRS concurrently as a comparator measure for assessing fatigue in 50 consecutive patients with stroke who were recruited later in the study period. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient (ρ) was used to examine the concurrent validity of the NRS-FRS. Discriminant validity was assessed by means of receiver operating characteristic curves, sensitivity, and specificity.

Results

The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.95 for the NRS-FRS. The standard error of measurement and the minimal detectable change at the 95 % confidence interval of the NRS-FRS were 0.50 and 1.39, respectively. The Bland-Altman analyses showed no significant systematic bias between the repeated measurements. A narrow range of the limits of agreement was shown on the Bland-Altman plot, indicating the NRS-FRS had high stability and low variation between the two test occasions. The correlations between the NRS-FRS and NRS were good at test (ρ = 0.85) and retest (ρ = 0.84). Compared with the NRS cutoff value of ≥1, sensitivity with the NRS-FRS at test and retest was 94 and 92 % and specificity was 79 and 90 %, respectively.

Conclusions

This study provides further evidence of the reliability and validity of the NRS-FRS in measuring fatigue intensity in patients with stroke. The NRS-FRS had high sensitivity and specificity. The NRS-FRS may be a reliable and valid measure for clinicians and researchers to assess fatigue and determine whether a real change has occurred in groups and at the individual level of patients with stroke.

Acute and chronic impact of cardiovascular events on health state utilities

BACKGROUND

Cost-utility models are frequently used to compare treatments intended to prevent or delay the onset of cardiovascular events. Most published utilities represent post-event health states without incorporating the disutility of the event or reporting the time between the event and utility assessment. Therefore, this study estimated health state utilities representing cardiovascular conditions while distinguishing between acute impact including the cardiovascular event and the chronic post-event impact.

METHODS

Health states were drafted and refined based on literature review, clinician interviews, and a pilot study. Three cardiovascular conditions were described: stroke, acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and heart failure. One-year acute health states represented the event and its immediate impact, and post-event health states represented chronic impact. UK general population respondents valued the health states in time trade-off tasks with time horizons of one year for acute states and ten years for chronic states.

RESULTS

A total of 200 participants completed interviews (55% female; mean age = 46.6 y). Among acute health states, stroke had the lowest utility (0.33), followed by heart failure (0.60) and ACS (0.67). Utility scores for chronic health states followed the same pattern: stroke (0.52), heart failure (0.57), and ACS (0.82). For stroke and ACS, acute utilities were significantly lower than chronic post-event utilities (difference = 0.20 and 0.15, respectively; both p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Results add to previously published utilities for cardiovascular events by distinguishing between chronic post-event health states and acute health states that include the event and its immediate impact. Findings suggest that acute versus chronic impact should be considered when selecting scores for use in cost-utility models. Thus, the current utilities provide a unique option that may be used to represent the acute and chronic impact of cardiovascular conditions in economic models comparing treatments that may delay or prevent the onset of cardiovascular events.

Post stroke pain: identification, assessment, and therapy

BACKGROUND

Pain is a common complication after stroke and is associated with the presence of depression, cognitive dysfunction, and impaired quality of life. It remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, despite evidence that effective treatment of pain may improve function and quality of life.

SUMMARY

We provide an overview of the means for clinical assessment and risk factors for the development of post-stroke pain, then review the newest available literature regarding the commonest post-stroke pain syndromes, including central post-stroke pain, complex regional pain syndrome, musculoskeletal pain including shoulder subluxation, spasticity-related pain, and post-stroke headache, as well as the available epidemiology and current treatment options. Key Messages: In the best interests of optimizing quality of life and function after stroke, clinicians should be aware of pain as a common complication after stroke, identify those patients at highest risk, directly inquire as to the presence and characteristics of pain, and should be aware of the options for treatment for the various pain syndromes.

Effectiveness of functional electrical stimulation in improving clinical outcomes in the upper arm following stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background. Different therapeutic methods are being used to prevent or decrease long-term impairments of the upper arm in stroke patients. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is one of these methods, which aims to stimulate the nerves of the weakened muscles so that the resulting muscle contractions resemble those of a functional task. Objectives. The objective of this study was to review the evidence for the effect of FES on (1) shoulder subluxation, (2) pain, and (3) upper arm motor function in stroke patients, when added to conventional therapy. Methods. From the 727 retrieved articles, 10 (9 RCTs, 1 quasi-RCT) were selected for final analysis and were rated based on the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) scores and the Sackett's levels of evidence. A meta-analysis was performed for all three considered outcomes. Results. The results of the meta-analyses showed a significant difference in shoulder subluxation in experimental groups compared to control groups, only if FES was applied early after stroke. No effects were found on pain or motor function outcomes. Conclusion. FES can be used to prevent or reduce shoulder subluxation early after stroke. However, it should not be used to reduce pain or improve upper arm motor function after stroke.

Machine-Based, Self-guided Home Therapy for Individuals With Severe Arm Impairment After Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Few therapeutic options exist for the millions of persons living with severe arm impairment after stroke to increase their dose of arm rehabilitation. This study compared self-guided, high-repetition home therapy with a mechanical device (the resonating arm exerciser [RAE]) to conventional therapy in patients with chronic stroke and explored RAE use for patients with subacute stroke.

METHODS

A total of 16 participants with severe upper-extremity impairment (mean Fugl-Meyer [FM] score = 21.4 ± 8.8 out of 66) >6 months poststroke were randomized to 3 weeks of exercise with the RAE or conventional exercises. The primary outcome measure was FM score 1 month posttherapy. Secondary outcome measures included Motor Activity Log, Visual Analog Pain Scale, and Ashworth Spasticity Scale. After a 1-month break, individuals in the conventional group also received a 3-week course of RAE therapy.

RESULTS

The change in FM score was significant in both the RAE and conventional groups after training (2.6 ± 1.4 and 3.4 ± 2.4, P = .008 and .016, respectively). These improvements were not significant at 1 month. Exercise with the RAE led to significantly greater improvements in distal FM score than conventional therapy at the 1-month follow-up (P = .02). In a separate cohort of patients with subacute stroke, the RAE was found feasible for exercise.

DISCUSSION

In those with severe arm impairment after chronic stroke, home-based training with the RAE was feasible and significantly reduced impairment without increasing pain or spasticity. Gains with the RAE were comparable to those found with conventional training and also included distal arm improvement.

Occupational Performance Coaching for stroke survivors: A pilot randomized controlled trial protocol

Background.

Many stroke survivors report participation challenges. Occupational Performance Coaching for stroke survivors (OPC-Stroke) is designed to assist stroke survivors to develop the ability to plan and manage engagement in occupation. This approach combines emotional support, individualized education, and goal-focused problem solving to promote occupational engagement.

Purpose.

This study will explore the potential efficacy of OPC-Stroke and the feasibility of the research methods for use in a larger trial.

Method.

A pilot randomized controlled trial will be undertaken. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive 10 sessions of OPC-Stroke or usual care. Participation, perceived goal performance, satisfaction and self-efficacy, emotional well-being, and cognition will be measured at three time points.

Implications.

This research will test the potential usefulness of OPC-Stroke as well as the study methods, and thereby inform the continuing development of OPC-Stroke and further studies to measure its effectiveness.

Brain-computer interface-based robotic end effector system for wrist and hand rehabilitation: results of a three-armed randomized controlled trial for chronic stroke

The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of an Electroencephalography (EEG)-based Motor Imagery (MI) Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) coupled with a Haptic Knob (HK) robot for arm rehabilitation in stroke patients. In this three-arm, single-blind, randomized controlled trial; 21 chronic hemiplegic stroke patients (Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment (FMMA) score 10-50), recruited after pre-screening for MI BCI ability, were randomly allocated to BCI-HK, HK or Standard Arm Therapy (SAT) groups. All groups received 18 sessions of intervention over 6 weeks, 3 sessions per week, 90 min per session. The BCI-HK group received 1 h of BCI coupled with HK intervention, and the HK group received 1 h of HK intervention per session. Both BCI-HK and HK groups received 120 trials of robot-assisted hand grasping and knob manipulation followed by 30 min of therapist-assisted arm mobilization. The SAT group received 1.5 h of therapist-assisted arm mobilization and forearm pronation-supination movements incorporating wrist control and grasp-release functions. In all, 14 males, 7 females, mean age 54.2 years, mean stroke duration 385.1 days, with baseline FMMA score 27.0 were recruited. The primary outcome measure was upper extremity FMMA scores measured mid-intervention at week 3, end-intervention at week 6, and follow-up at weeks 12 and 24. Seven, 8 and 7 subjects underwent BCI-HK, HK and SAT interventions respectively. FMMA score improved in all groups, but no intergroup differences were found at any time points. Significantly larger motor gains were observed in the BCI-HK group compared to the SAT group at weeks 3, 12, and 24, but motor gains in the HK group did not differ from the SAT group at any time point. In conclusion, BCI-HK is effective, safe, and may have the potential for enhancing motor recovery in chronic stroke when combined with therapist-assisted arm mobilization.

Relative and absolute reliability of a vertical numerical pain rating scale supplemented with a faces pain scale after stroke

BACKGROUND

Pain is a serious adverse complication after stroke. The combination of a vertical numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) and a faces pain scale (FPS) has been advocated to measure pain after stroke.

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to investigate whether an NPRS supplemented with an FPS (NPRS-FPS) would show good test-retest reliability in people with stroke. The relative and absolute reliability of the NPRS-FPS were examined.

DESIGN

A test-retest design was used for this study.

METHODS

Fifty people (>3 months after stroke) participating in an outpatient occupational therapy program were recruited through medical centers to rate current pain intensity twice, at a 1-week interval, with the NPRS-FPS (on a scale from 0 to 10). The relative reliability of the NPRS-FPS was analyzed with the intraclass correlation coefficient for determining the degree of consistency and agreement between 2 measures. The standard error of measurement, the smallest real difference, and Bland-Altman limits of agreement were the absolute reliability indexes used to quantify measurement errors and determine systematic biases of repeated measurements.

RESULTS

The relative reliability of the NPRS-FPS was substantial (intraclass correlation coefficient=.82). The standard error of measurement and the smallest real difference at the 90% confidence interval of the NPRS-FPS were 0.81 and 1.87, respectively. The Bland-Altman analyses revealed no significant systematic bias between repeated measurements for the NPRS-FPS. The range of the limits of agreement for the NPRS-FPS was narrow (-2.50 to 1.90), indicating a high level of stability and little variation over time.

LIMITATIONS

The pain intensity of the participants ranged from no pain to a moderate level of pain.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the NPRS-FPS is a reliable measure of pain in people with stroke, with good relative and absolute reliability.

Quality measures in stroke

Stroke is a major public health burden, and accounts for many hospitalizations each year. Due to gaps in practice and recommended guidelines, there has been a recent push toward implementing quality measures to be used for improving patient care, comparing institutions, as well as for rewarding or penalizing physicians through pay-for-performance. This article reviews the major organizations involved in implementing quality metrics for stroke, and the 10 major metrics currently being tracked. We also discuss possible future metrics and the implications of public reporting and using metrics for pay-for-performance.

Sensitivity and specificity of a visual depression screening instrument among HIV-positive individuals in Uganda, an area with low literacy

Given the high prevalence of depression in PHC, the use of depression screening instruments has often been recommended. The aim of this study was to construct and validate a visual depression screening instrument in a setting of low literacy and a high burden of HIV/AIDS. We engaged the help of a fine artist to draw pictures depicting DSM-IV-TR criteria for a depressive episode. We then validated this instrument named the Akena's visual depression inventory (AVIDI), in 92 persons living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda. The performance of the AVIDI in those with high and low education levels was determined. The area under curve (AUC) score of the AVIDI was 0.82. There was no difference between the AUC scores in persons with lower versus higher education levels. The AVIDI demonstrated a good psychometric property and can therefore be used to screen for depression in settings with higher rates of illiteracy.

The effects of fatigue, pain, and depression on quality of life in ischemic stroke patients: the Bergen Stroke Study

Background

Many patients with cerebral infarction suffer from symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and depression. The aim of this study was to evaluate these symptoms in relation to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) on long-term follow-up.

Materials and methods

All surviving stroke patients admitted to the Stroke Unit, Haukeland University Hospital, Norway between February 2006 and November 2008 were sent a questionnaire, including a visual analog pain scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, Depression Subscale of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Barthel Index, and three measures of HRQoL – 15D, EuroQol, and EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale – at least 6 months after stroke onset. Cox regression survival analysis, including EQ-5D, was performed by November 2009.

Results

The questionnaire was returned by 328 patients. All three symptoms were reported by 10.1% of the patients, and 26% reported two symptoms. There was a significant association between worse HRQoL scores and an increasing number of cooccurring symptoms for all three HRQoL scores. Fatigue, depression, pain, functional state, and sleeping disorder on follow-up accounted for 58%–83% of the variability in HRQoL, depending on which HRQoL scale was used. Cox regression analysis showed that mortality was associated with a low EuroQol score (P = 0.016).

Conclusion

Pain, fatigue, and depression were common symptoms among these stroke patients and, to a large extent, they determined the patients’ HRQoL. Low HRQoL was associated with increased mortality.

The feasibility and test-retest reliability of the Dutch Swal-Qol adapted interview version for dysphagic patients with communicative and/or cognitive problems

Purpose

The adaptation of the Dutch Swal-Qol questionnaire to an interview format suitable for dysphagic patients with communicative and/or cognitive problems and evaluation of the feasibility and test–retest reliability.

Methods

An observational study with two measurements within a 2-week time period in a sample of 57 stroke patients with dysphagia in a nursing home environment. The interview version of the Swal-Qol was evaluated in the total group and in subgroups of patients with and without communicative and/or cognitive problems.

Results

The constructed interview version was considered feasible from an expert’s and patient’s point of view. The overall score and seven subscales of the Swal-Qol showed an excellent test–retest reliability (k > 0.75), and two subscales were considered good (k > 0.60).

Conclusions

This study showed that using a structured, and at the same time flexible, interview format tailored to the individual needs of stroke patients enhances the feasibility and does not compromise the test–retest reliability.

Theta burst stimulation in the rehabilitation of the upper limb: a semirandomized, placebo-controlled trial in chronic stroke patients

BACKGROUND

Noninvasive cortical stimulation could represent an add-on treatment to enhance motor recovery after stroke. However, its clinical value, including anticipated size and duration of the treatment effects, remains largely unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The authors designed a small semi-randomized clinical trial to explore whether long-lasting clinically important gains can be achieved by adding theta burst stimulation (TBS), a form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), to a rehabilitation program for the hand.

METHODS

A total of 41 chronic stroke patients received excitatory TBS to the ipsilesional hemisphere or inhibitory TBS to the contralesional hemisphere in 2 centers; each active group was compared with a group receiving sham TBS. TBS was followed by physical therapy for 10 working days. Patients and therapists were blinded to the type of TBS. Primary outcome measures (9-hole Peg Test [9HPT], Jebsen Taylor Test [JTT], and grip and pinch-grip dynamometry) were assessed 4, 30, and 90 days post treatment. The clinically important difference was defined as 10% of the maximum score.

RESULTS

There were no differences between the active treatment and sham groups in any of the outcome measures. All patients achieved small sustainable improvements--9HPT, 5% of maximum (confidence interval [CI] = 3%-7%); JTT, 5.7% (CI = 3%-8%); and grip strength, 6% (CI = 2%-10%)--all below the defined clinically important level.

CONCLUSIONS

Cortical stimulation did not augment the gains from a late rehabilitation program. The effect size anticipated by the authors was overestimated. These results can improve the design of future work on therapeutic uses of TMS.