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After obtaining informed consent,we randomized 78 patients with severe hemiparesis of the left or right side within 10 days of stroke onset;40 to a control group receiving daily physiotherapy and occupational therapy,and 38 to a group that,in addition,we treated with sensory stimulation (acupuncture)twice a week for 10 weeks.The median age was 76 years for both groups.Motor function,balance,and ADL(Barthel's Index)were assessed before the start of treatment and at 1 and 3 months after stroke onset;ADL was also assessed after 12 months.We assessed the quality of life(QL)using the Nottingham Health Profile 3,6,and 12 months after stroke onset. Patients given sensory stimulation recovered faster and to a larger extent than the controls,with a significant difference for balance,mobility,ADL, QL,and days spent at hospitals/nursing homes.Whether acupuncture per se is responsible for the differences requires further study. |
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