FUNCTIONAL USE OF THE UPPER LIMBS AFTER STROKE: CORRELATION BETWEEN UNIMANUAL PERFORMANCE AND BIMANUAL CAPACITY

• Grant number: 25/25096-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2026
• End date: March 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Natalia Duarte Pereira
• Grantee: Bruna Maranho Vieira
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Stroke is one of the leading causes of functional disability worldwide, often resulting in hemiparesis and impairment of upper limb use, which lead to activity limitations, participation restrictions, and impacts individuals quality of life. Although most daily tasks involve bimanual actions, the relationship between unimanual performance and bimanual capacity remains poorly understood. Objective: This study aims to analyze the correlation between unimanual performance and bimanual capacity in individuals with chronic post-stroke hemiparesis. Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional study approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of São Carlos. The sample will consist of 34 individuals with chronic stroke, selected by convenience sampling. Sample characterization will include the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), and the Box and Block Test (BBT). The data collection instruments will include the Motor Activity Log (MAL) used to assess unimanual performance in daily life, and the Bimanual Activity Assessment Scale (BAAS), used to measure bimanual capacity. Data will be analyzed using SPSS software (or equivalent), and statistical analyses will include Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficients (p < 0.05). Expected results: It is expected to identify a direct correlation between unimanual use and bimanual capacity, providing evidence of the functional relationship between these dimensions. The results may contribute to guiding individualized rehabilitation strategies aimed at improving functionality and quality of life in individuals after stroke. (AU)