“Since undertaking sensory retraining, all tasks using my stroke affected hand are easier and require less concentration”
– Karen
Capturing learning and activity based neural plasticity through rehabilitation
The continuum of recovery after stroke presents opportunities for targeted rehabilitation to harness and enhance mechanisms of neural plasticity for improved outcomes. One in 2 stroke survivors experience impaired body sensations after stroke, impacting ability to interact with the world around them, goal-directed use of the arm, and return to previous life activities. These challenges are often ongoing in the days, weeks, months and even years post-stroke.
In response to this need we have systematically developed an approach to sensory rehabilitation that is founded on perceptual learning and neural plasticity. The approach demonstrates improvement not only in sensory capacity trained but also in transfer to untrained tasks and personally important activities. The approach has been systematically developed from principles of learning and neuroscience and operationalised into a clinical practice protocol. A randomised control trial provides evidence for effectiveness of SENSe therapy. Neuroimaging studies provide insight into underlying mechanisms. Further clinical studies provide guidance on who can benefit from the therapy and the impact of therapy on motor function and performance of valued activities. An implementation intervention is now being used to upskill therapists and drive the translation of this knowledge- and skill-based complex intervention into clinical practice settings. If you would like to find out more about these activities, please see the Research page or Contact Us.