The problem
How can therapists enhance the effect of their upper limb rehabilitation, both within and away from the treatment session?

Where there is some recovery of motor activity, patients may become accustomed to using their unaffected arm (termed 'learned non-use'),

By restricting activity in the unaffected arm, use of the affected arm is encouraged.
Conventional methods of upper limb constraint have included the use of a splint and sling, but this raises concerns of patient safety, ability to use a walking aid and the use of the unaffected arm for bilateral tasks.

The Solution
By restricting the use of the unaffected arm, additional demands are made on the stroke arm, which can enhance motor recovery.

Using the C-MIT on the unaffected hand may be used both within therapy sessions and in functional task practice.

It may be used as a stand alone intervention or in conjunction with a training programme, electrical stimulation or Botulinum toxin therapy. It is a means of increasing upper limb use without additional therapy sessions.

User feedback
Within a recent clinical trial 90% of participants would recommend using the mit to other stroke patients, with 90% identifying it made them use their stroke hand more.

It empowers patients to participate in their own rehabilitation.

Unique design features
The design of the C-MIT, enables the unaffected arm to maintain its role in balance and bilateral tasks.
1. The high friction palm enables patients to continue to effectively grip a walking aid.
2. A plastic insert and internal padding restricts thumb opposition and wrist activity.
3. The mesh upper-side and internal structure increases air circulation to prevent heat build up and improves patient comfort.
*The C-MIT itself is designed to be oversized, to limit any temptation to use the unaffected hand and to remain as a visual reminder to prompt use of the stroke arm.

Research Evidence
This intervention is suitable for patients who are able to fully understand the rationale behind the
C-MIT wearing and who are willing to comply. Patients must have a basic level of motor activity in the stroke arm.

The C-MIT has been used as a stand alone additional intervention in a recent clinical trial, demonstrating increased recovery rates for stroke users, wearing it for an average of 6.7 hours a day over a 2-week programme. Further clinical evidence supports the use of functional task practice and the effect of enhanced level of rehabilitation.