Characteristics and Outcomes of a Community Upper Limb Rehabilitation Group for Adult Stroke Survivors in Australia: A Pre-Post Cohort Study

This study investigated outcomes of a community-based upper limb rehabilitation group for adult stroke survivors in metropolitan Australia. Pre-post data were extracted from medical records. Participants (n = 27) were predominantly men (n = 22, 81%); mean age 61 years (SD 17) and median time 109 days post stroke. Participants improved on upper limb outcomes, with statistically significant changes on several of the items on the Motor Assessment Scale (item seven mean improvement 0.93 (95% CI 0.48-2.19), p =.016; item eight mean improvement 1.4 (95% CI 0.38-2.42), p =.016) and grip strength (mean improvement 4.5 kg/9 pounds, 14.73 ounces (95% CI 1.5-7.6), p =.006). These results guide occupational therapists implementing community-based upper limb rehabilitation groups.