To determine the effects of modified constraint-induced movement therapy on motor control of functional reach-to-grasp tasks and functional performance tasks of daily living in individuals with chronic stroke and hemiparesis. DESIGN TYPE AND LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Randomized controlled trial

Based on the findings of this study, modified constraint-induced movement therapy results in more positive gains in functional performance, improved motor control during reaching tasks, and an ability to use feed-forward control of movements of the hand affected by hemiparesis compared to a traditional rehabilitation approach for first-time stroke survivors. These findings indicate that modified constraint-induced movement therapy is an effective treatment program for occupational therapists to use for rehabilitating the upper extremity in chronic stroke survivors. Modified constraint-induced movement therapy results in increased functional performance of the upper extremity, allowing clients to increase performance in activities of daily living. Occupational therapists considering the use of modified constraint-induced movement therapy for intervention must consider that this approach did not demonstrate more positive outcomes in movement time or smoothness of movement compared to the traditional rehabilitation approach.