Stroke survivors needed for a study

University of Queensland researchers with the Lockyer Valley Stroke Support Group are conducting a survey of people living in Queensland who have had a stroke affecting their arm.

UQ Physiotherapy researcher Ruth Barker said the survey, which took about 20 to 30 minutes to complete, aimed to determine factors contributing to recovery of the arm and hand after stroke.

The experience of stroke survivors from a metropolitan location where resources are available also would be compared to the experience of stroke survivors from a rural and remote location where resources were scarce or non-existent. Data will be used to develop training strategies for people with arm and hand dysfunction following stroke.

The study is the first stage of a larger research project that aimed to maximise upper limb recovery after stroke with minimum resource utilisation. Results would be used design a randomised controlled clinical trial of physiotherapy intervention concentrating on upper limb function. If found to be successful at significantly improving function, the intervention will be converted into a self-management package.

People interested in participating in the survey or in the overall research project should contact Ruth Barker at (07) 3365 2779 and register their name, address and phone number, or email r.barker@shrs.uq.edu.au

Media: for more information, contact Jan King at UQ Communications (telephone 07 3365 1120).