Sensitivity of the accelerometer as a measurement tool for upper extremity movement by stroke patients: a comparison with the action research arm test

[Purpose] This study investigated the sensitivity of an accelerometer in a comparison with the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). [Subjects] Fifteen stroke patients participated in this study. [Methods] Subjects wore accelerometers on both wrists and performed the ARAT items. We then compared the data measured by the accelerometer with that of the ARAT. [Results] ARAT scores were higher on the non-affected side than the affected side, while the amount of upper extremity movement was higher on the affected side. The correlation coefficients for the two tools were not significantly different. [Conclusion] Our findings indicate that an accelerometer is a useful and sensitive instrument for clinically measuring the upper extremity activity of patients with stroke.