Motor learning principles reported in stroke trials of upper limb task-oriented training: a scoping review.

OBJECTIVE

Upper limb task-oriented training (UL-TOT) is a complex intervention in which practice conditions related to motor learning principles are applied to enhance upper limb motor recovery after stroke. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication guidelines suggest that detailed reporting of a complex intervention is essential in published studies. Therefore, this review aimed to determine the extent to which practice conditions related to motor learning principles were reported in UL-TOT stroke clinical trials.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was done using appropriate keywords in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane databases from 2000 to 2024. Two reviewers independently conducted title screening, abstract screening and full-text evaluation based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A third reviewer resolved the conflicts between the two reviewers during the screening process. Finally, the articles that fulfilled the criteria were included for data extraction.

RESULTS

23 802 studies were retrieved, and 166 studies were retained. Practice conditions such as practice variability (98%), dosage (97%) and movement complexity (96%) were reported more frequently, task selection for practice (75%), challenging and progressive task practice (76%) were reported frequently, practice order (57%), practice distribution (51%), feedback type (44%) and timing (44%) were reported occasionally. Feedback frequency (37%) was reported rarely.

CONCLUSIONS

Practice conditions such as practice variability, dosage, movement complexity, task selection, challenging and progressive task practice were reported consistently, while practice distribution, order and feedback were reported inconsistently. Developing a standard checklist for practice conditions related to motor learning principles can improve detailed reporting of practice conditions in future UL-TOT stroke clinical trials. This can help researchers replicate and reliably implement the intervention in specific populations and build on and create more effective interventions.