Clinical Report: Impact of Occupational Therapy on Upper Limb Function and Rehabilitation Results Following Stroke

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that occupational therapy (OT) significantly enhances upper limb function, activities of daily living (ADL), and reduces depressive symptoms in stroke patients. The findings support the integration of OT into post-stroke rehabilitation, particularly emphasizing longer and structured intervention programs.

Background

Stroke is a leading cause of disability globally, often resulting in upper limb dysfunction that severely impacts daily living and quality of life. Occupational therapy is recommended in rehabilitation guidelines, yet comprehensive evidence on its effects across various outcomes in stroke survivors has been limited. This study aims to fill that gap by evaluating the impact of OT on physical and psychological outcomes in stroke patients.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• OT significantly improves upper limb function (SMD = 1.42).
• OT enhances activities of daily living (SMD = 1.17).
• OT reduces depressive symptoms (SMD = -2.08).
• Longer OT durations (>8 weeks) yield greater improvements in motor recovery.
• Subgroup analyses indicate larger effects in specific intervention settings and types.
• GRADE certainty was rated moderate for all outcomes assessed.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider incorporating structured occupational therapy into rehabilitation programs for stroke patients to enhance recovery outcomes. Emphasizing longer intervention durations and tailored approaches may further improve upper limb function and psychological well-being.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the critical role of occupational therapy in post-stroke rehabilitation, highlighting its effectiveness in improving both physical and mental health outcomes. Integrating OT into standard care practices is essential for optimizing recovery in stroke survivors.

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