Brain activation pattern as assessed with multi-modal EEG analysis
predict motor recovery among stroke patients with mild arm paresis who receive
the Arm Ability Training
Affiliations: Klinik Berlin, Abteilung für Neurologische
Rehabilitation der Freien Universität Berlin am Universitätsklinikum
Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
Abstract: {\it Purpose:} Receiving the Arm Ability Training for three weeks
improves motor function among stroke patients with mild arm paresis. There is,
however, a considerable variability in recovery among patients receiving the
Arm Ability Training. The study investigated whether intersubject differences
in movement-related electric brain activity explain the variability in motor
recovery. {\it Methods:} In a sample of 9 patients receiving the Arm Ability
Training both motor performance using a standardised arm function test (TEMPA)
and movement-related electric brain activity, i.e. slow cortical potentials
(DC) as well as event-related desynchronisation of alpha (alpha-ERD) and beta
activity (beta-ERD), were assessed before the Arm Ability Training was started.
Stepwise multiple regression was used to establish the best predictive model
for motor improvement scores (TEMPA difference from pre to post test three
weeks later). {\it Results:} Stepwise multiple regression indicated that electric
brain activity during movement preparation explained the variance of motor
improvement scores completely. Further, electric brain activity during movement
as well as baseline motor performance accounted each for 50% of the variance
of motor improvement scores. {\it Conclusions:} Activation of sensorimotor areas during movement
preparation and deactivation of other cortical areas during movement execution
seem to be factors that predict a favourable outcome after training.
