The Effects of the Muscles Along Meridians Release Therapy on the Function of Upper Limb in Stroke Patients

경근이완요법이 뇌졸중 환자의 주관절 경직과 상지기능에 미치는 효과

Purpose: The Purpose of this study was to test the effects of the Muscles Along Meridians Release Therapy on the function of upper limb as a means of nursing intervention. Method: The design used for this study was quasi - experimental with a nonequivalent control group pretest - post test design. The subjects were 40 stroke patients who were admitted in K oriental medical center of K University. This study was carried out from 6, May to 18, October, 2003. The experimental group (21) and the control group (19) were assigned by means of Participation order. The experimental group took Muscles Along Meridians Release Therapy on affected upper limb for 3 minutes daily for 2 weeks. Outcome were assessed by Modified Ashworth Scale, VAS, Fugl - Meyer score and goniometer. Data were analysed by SPSS PC. Result: After 2 weeks of treatment, function of affected upper limb, elbow joint spasticity were significantly better than control group, but, there was no significant difference in pain between experimental group and control group. Conclusion: The above results state that the Muscles Along Meridians Released Therapy could be an effective intervention for improving upper limb function and elbow joint spasticity of stroke patients.