Guitar therapy can help in stroke recovery—UP study
A study conducted by the University of the Philippines found that guitar lessons can improve hand function in chronic stroke patients.
The G.T.A.R.A. (Grip/Grasp Training with Active Range of Motion Activities using Guitar) project explored the use of specialized guitar lessons for stroke patients and aimed to increase existing rehabilitation methods.
In a randomized controlled trial at the Philippine General Hospital, 34 chronic stroke patients with unilateral hand impairment were assigned guitar lessons or occupational therapy.
The patients were divided into two groups: the guitar-lesson intervention group and a control group undergoing standard occupational therapy. They underwent eight consecutive therapy sessions.
Researchers then evaluated the results of the treatments through testing the participants' range of motion, grip and pinch strength, and standardized tests.
While they observed no statistically significant difference for the active range of motion of the impaired hand in both groups, researchers saw greater improvement in motor coordination for those who underwent guitar lessons.
According to the authors, the guitar lesson rehab can be implemented in areas lacking rehabilitation facilities and occupational therapy programs.
The study, published in Acta Medica Philippina, was conducted by Kerza Geovien G. Ligaya, Sharon D. Ignacio, Daniel Joseph S. Morabe, Nathan Neil V. Manimtim, and Manuel Peter Paul C. Jorge II.
The G.T.A.R.A. Project team received the International Publication Award for their efforts.
