The criteria for constraint induced movement therapy varies slightly from study to study. Patients need to have had a stroke which has affected and reduced the functional use of their hand and arm. There are also some specific criteria regarding the movement in the hand – this can be broadly broken down into a higher functioning group and a lower functioning group. The first group needs to demonstrate at least 20 degrees wrist extension and 10 degrees extension at the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints in all of the fingers. Lower functioning participants need to have at least 10 degrees wrist extension, thumb abduction and at least 10 degrees of extension in at least two additional digits. In addition to this participants are also required to be able to sit to stand and transfer safely whilst wearing the splint and cuff.
