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Purpose: The current meta-analysis reviewed evidence for effective task-oriented training focused on repetitive or circuit training after stroke. Method: Searches were conducted of randomized, controlled trials using task-oriented training. The quality of each study was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Eleven studies were analyzed regarding the magnitude of effect sizes (ESs) and categorized according to extremities focused upon for training, outcome measures, and study variables. This included duration and frequency of training and stroke stage. Results: The PEDro scores ranged from 4 to 8 (median57). The overall ES of the 11 studies was large. The effects for lower extremities and both acute/sub-acute and chronic stage stroke were large and significant. Significant effects were also found for gait velocity, gait endurance, balance, timed up and go test, and strength of the lower extremities. There was no significant effect of training focused on upper extremities. Training with a duration of 2 weeks and frequency of 7 days a week had the greatest effects. Conclusions: Task-oriented training interventions are useful for improving muscle strength and gait related activities in both acute/sub-acute and chronic stroke patients. Although this meta-analysis provides evidence of task-oriented training for improving functioning after stroke, further studies are necessary to investigate the effects of training on upper extremities and the overall cost-effectiveness of such training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective/Background: To compare the effects of simple and task-oriented mirror therapies on upper extremity function in stroke patients with hemiplegia. Methods: A single-subject, reversal (applied behaviour analysis) research design was used, and the study included four patients and two treatments. Treatment 1 involved simple mirror therapy that was performed using simple upper limb movements. Treatment 2 involved task-oriented mirror therapy that required each patient to perform functional movements associated with the tasks of daily living. Changes in upper extremity function were assessed during 23 sessions using box and block test, cube carry, and card turning tests. The Fugl-Meyer Assessment of upper extremity function was also performed. Results: The upper extremity function of all patients increased after mirror therapy. However, the improved upper extremity function of the patients undergoing simple mirror therapy was not maintained after the conclusion of the therapy. By contrast, the improved upper extremity function of the patients receiving task-oriented mirror therapy continued to improve, even after therapy cessation. Conclusion: Task-oriented mirror therapy in stroke patients provided more effective improvement in the upper extremity function of the hemiplegic stroke victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]