Mapping the role of sensation in arm function after stroke-from somatosensation to sensorimotor function, arm use, and participation: a scoping review.

PURPOSE: To explore available literature profiling the role of somatosensation on arm function after stroke; from somatosensation to sensorimotor function, arm use, and participation.

METHODS

Studies were included if they had a standardised measure of somatosensation of the arm, in combination with a standardised measure of sensorimotor function, arm use, and/or participation. Ten databases were searched. Outcome measures were classified relative to the International Classification of Functioning framework and somatosensory function was categorised according to which somatosensory modality was assessed.

RESULTS

The scoping review included 377 studies. Most studies (74.8%) measured somatosensation and sensorimotor function only; while 18.6% of studies included a measure of somatosensation, sensorimotor function, and arm use. Only 3.7% reported outcomes across the full continuum (somatosensation, sensorimotor function, arm use, and participation). For somatosensory modalities, 49.6% of studies evaluated tactile sensation, 39.0% tested proprioception, 13.8% tested haptic object recognition, 29.2% utilised a test with two or more modalities summed, and 9.3% used neurophysiological tests.

CONCLUSION

Whilst somatosensory function was commonly tested in combination with a measure of sensorimotor function, somatosensation was not commonly tested with a measure of arm use and/or participation. This gap limits a comprehensive understanding of how somatosensory impairments affect real-world activities and participation.