Examination of the relationship between upper extremity functions and speech-language function in chronic stroke patients

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between upper extremity functions and speech-language functions in chronic stroke patients. Thirty-two chronic stroke patients with aphasia were included in the study, the average age of the patients is 56.88 years. Action Research Arm Test, Wolf Motor Function Test, Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Scale and Minnesota Hand Dexterity Test were used to evaluate the affected upper extremity motor functions of the individuals. The Language Assessment Test for Aphasia was used to evaluate speech and language functions of the individuals. The assessments were conducted between November 2017 and May 2019 at the Neurological Rehabilitation Unit of Hacettepe University Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, and the Speech and Language Unit of Hacettepe University Hospitals. A statistically significant correlation was found between Wolf Motor Function Test and the reading (rs= 0.36, p= 0.04). No statistically significant correlation was found between the other upper extremity assessment scales and speech-language functions (p>0.05). As a result, there was a statistically significant correlation between hand motor skills and reading. So, individuals with good reading functions have also good hand motor skills. This study revealed the necessity of planning the rehabilitation of chronic stroke individuals as a whole and with a multidisciplinary team, and the necessity of planning and conducting the physiotherapy and rehabilitation program and speech-language therapy in coordination. Key Words: Chronic stroke, upper extremity, function, aphasia, language abilities.