Objective:

To evaluate the effects of a structured music-based intervention on motor function after stroke, with exploratory outcomes including executive functioning and stroke-specific quality of life.

Approach:

• Study Design: A randomized waitlist-controlled intervention study involving adults aged 18–70 who have experienced a stroke at least 3 months prior.
• Intervention: Participants will be divided into an experimental group receiving standard rehabilitation care plus a structured music-based intervention and a waitlist group receiving only standard care initially.
• Assessment Timeline: Assessments will occur at baseline, post-intervention (week 5), after group crossover (week 10), and at a 3-month follow-up.
• Outcome Measures: Primary outcome is motor function; secondary outcomes include upper-limb motor function, executive functioning, and stroke-specific quality of life.
• Statistical Analysis: Analyses will follow the intention-to-treat principle using linear mixed-effects models.

Key Findings:

• Structured music-based interventions may enhance motor coordination and motivation.
• Potential benefits include improvements in emotional regulation, social interaction, and perceived quality of life.

Interpretation:

The study aims to provide preliminary evidence on the feasibility and potential effects of integrating music-based interventions into post-stroke rehabilitation.

Limitations:

• The study is limited to a single outpatient neurological rehabilitation center initially.
• Findings may not be generalizable beyond the studied population.

Conclusion:

This study seeks to fill a gap in existing research by evaluating a comprehensive music-based intervention that integrates motor rehabilitation with cognitive and psychosocial components.

Sources:

• Study Protocol Preregistration