Effectiveness of CIMT and HABIT Approaches in Restoring Upper Limb Functionality in Adults Post-Stroke: A Comparative Study

Bakaraki, Myrto Patagia and Dourbois, Theofanis and Dimitrios, Zacharis (2025) Effectiveness of CIMT and HABIT Approaches in Restoring Upper Limb Functionality in Adults Post-Stroke: A Comparative Study. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 22 (1). pp. 598-604. ISSN 2582-5542

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two therapies, Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy (HABIT), in adults after stroke to restore upper limb function. Both CIMT, which involves intensive practice of the affected limb by restraining the unaffected limb, and HABIT, which involves bilateral training of both hands and arms, are commonly used in stroke rehab. This study looks at the changes in activities of daily living (ADLs), quality of life and functional independence after these interventions. We will use established tools such as the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Motor Activity Log (MAL) and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) to measure motor skills and daily functioning. We will look at which intervention leads to more improvement and whether certain types or severity of stroke benefit more from one approach over the other. The results will give us insight into the pros and cons and optimal use of CIMT and HABIT so clinicians can better tailor their rehab programs for stroke survivors.