A case report on the use of a novel optokinetic chart stimulation intervention for the restoration of voluntary movement and mobility in a patient with an acute hemorrhagic stroke

Abstract

Background and Purpose:

The objective of this case report is to report on the use of novel optokinetic chart stimulation to achieve recovery of affected upper limb and affected lower limb voluntary movements and full recovery of mobility in a patient with an acute hemorrhagic stroke.

Method:

An optokinetic chart was moved in front of the patient: from side to side, up and down and finally forwards and backwards. Specific active-assisted exercises of affected shoulder anti-gravity muscles were also carried out. These were external rotation, abduction, flexion and a combination of these through the D2F proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) pattern.

Results:

Oxford score improved from 0/5 on admission to 3/5 on discharge, after 8 weeks, while Barthel Index improved from 0/20 to 20/20. STREAM scores improved from 1/70 on admission to 18/70 a month after admission and 70 /70 at follow-up 3 months after discharge.

Discussion:

Optokinetic chart stimulation led to restoration of voluntary movement on the affected side as well as restoration of independent mobility. Further research on the use of the optokinetic chart to enhance neural plasticity for restoration of voluntary movement and mobility is recommended.