DefinePK

Abstract

Stroke is a major global disability, causing upper limb movement abnormalities due to middle cerebral artery infarctions. The ICF model categorizes stroke-related impairments into those affecting body functions and structures. These impairments, particularly in shoulder muscles, hinder daily activities and worsen recovery. Up to 85% of stroke survivors experience sensory deficits, extending hospital stays. In Pakistan, stroke prevalence varies, with a study in KPK reporting a prevalence of 1.2. Motor recovery post-stroke is linked to corticospinal tract integrity, while proprioceptive recovery mechanisms are less understood. Sensory motor adaptation involves neural responses to discrepancies between intended and actual movements, with key roles played by the cerebral motor cortex, basal ganglia, and striatum. Around 80% of stroke survivors experience upper limb motor instability, characterized by loss of dexterity, coordination, muscle tone abnormalities, and sensory loss. Effective rehabilitation requires evaluating post-stroke sensorimotor dysfunction, and the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) is a reliable tool for assessing motor and sensory function in stroke patients. 
OBJECTIVE: To assess and observe sensory-motor functions in left cerebral artery stroke survivors.
METHODS: This descriptive cross-sectional study took place in Ghurki Trust and Teaching Hospital. Non-probability convenient sampling was done. Sample size was calculated using WHO calculator. A total of 51 participants signed the consent forms and took part in the study. Comprehensive assessment was done using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) which is a stroke-specific, performance-based impairment index. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 26 and was presented in the form of mean and standard deviation. Categorical variables were presented in the form of frequency tables.
RESULTS: The categorization of UE sensorimotor impairments using Fugal Mayer tool in post subacute to chronic left middle cerebral artery stroke was as follows: out of 51 patients, 12 were categorized into mild, while 23 were in moderate, 16 in severe and none fell into very severe.
CONCLUSION:The findings indicate that among post-subacute to chronic left middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke patients, the majority exhibited moderate upper extremity sensorimotor impairments as assessed by the Fugl-Meyer tool. A smaller proportion demonstrated mild or severe impairments, while no patients presented with very severe deficits, suggesting a relative preservation of sensorimotor function within this cohort. This distribution implies a potential for functional recovery and responsiveness to rehabilitation interventions in most patients within this stage of stroke recovery.