Does Lycra sleeve alter biomechanics of shoulder in people with post-stroke hemiplegia - A mechanistic study

Abstract Introduction Glenohumeral subluxation (GHS) is reported in up to 81% of patients with stroke. Our previous studies found that a Lycra sleeve can reduce acromion-greater tuberosity distance (used for assessment of GHS) in people with chronic stroke (n=5). In a recent study on healthy people (n=31), we report reduction in AGT, change in scapula measurements and change in muscle activity after the application of Lycra sleeve. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Lycra sleeves on the acromion-greater tuberosity (AGT) distance, muscle activity around the shoulder region and scapular position in people with stroke. Abstract Method People with stroke who gave informed consent were recruited. Measurements were taken before and immediately after application of the sleeve. Portable diagnostic ultrasound, electromyography and a tape measure were used to measure AGT distance, muscle activity (biceps, triceps, deltoid, and supraspinatus) and position of the scapula respectively. Abstract Results Six participants with mean age 53±8 years were recruited. Mean±SD and 95% confidence intervals for AGT distances on the affected side before and after the application of sleeve were 2.1±0.3 (1.8-2.5cm) and 2.0±0.4 (1.6-2.4cm) respectively. There was a very slight increase in muscle activity after the application of Lycra sleeve in all muscles tested. Likewise there was reduction in scapula position (posterior tilt) (Mean difference 0.75±0.2cm after the application of sleeve. Abstract Discussion Findings from this study are in agreement with the previous research. Further research is required to establish the effectiveness of the Lycra sleeve using a well-designed randomised controlled trial.