Are we applying interventions with research evidence when targeting secondary complications of the stroke-affected upper limb

Background/aim:  This study aimed to survey occupational therapy practice with reference to the current evidence for management of secondary complications of the stroke-affected upper limb.
Methods:  A questionnaire was developed to identify the clinical practice of occupational therapists in managing the client's stroke-affected upper limb. Participants were recruited via an email to the national occupational therapy neurology listserve. Occupational therapists working in stroke rehabilitation were invited to complete the questionnaire online or to print off and return.
Results:  Fifty-five occupational therapists completed the questionnaire. Results revealed that treatment techniques with little to no evidence were used frequently, including pillow cushion supports (98%), positional stretch (94%) and slings (61%). Alternatively, treatment techniques with significant supporting evidence were used at a lower frequency, such as electrical stimulation (39%).
Conclusions:  The results of the questionnaire highlight an inconsistent application of evidence within clinical practice and the consistent application of treatment techniques with poor supporting evidence. This result does not represent poor clinical practice. Rather, it highlights the need for the research literature to articulate the clinical reasoning underpinning clinicians' selection of treatment techniques and to determine the effectiveness of frequently used, but poorly supported treatment techniques.