Correlation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Fugl-Meyer Score Changes after Telerehabilitation in Stroke

Husnul  Mubarak; Andi Asadul  Islam; Andi Kurnia  Bintang; Muhammad Nasrum  Massi; Hening Laswati  Putra; Jumraini  Tammasse; Susi  Aulina; Agussalim  Bukhari; Firdaus  Hamid; Andi Alfian  Zainuddin; Edwin Putra  Pomada

doi:10.18502/jmr.v19i4.19775

Husnul Mubarak Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Andi Asadul Islam Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Andi Kurnia Bintang Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Muhammad Nasrum Massi Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Hening Laswati Putra Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Jumraini Tammasse Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Susi Aulina Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Agussalim Bukhari Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Firdaus Hamid Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Andi Alfian Zainuddin Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
Edwin Putra Pomada Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jmr.v19i4.19775

Keywords: Stroke; Brain-derived neurotrophic factor; Telerehabilitation; Recovery of function

Abstract

Introduction: Early post-stroke rehabilitation reduces disability and improves quality of life. However, limited access to rehabilitation facilities presents a significant challenge. Home-based telerehabilitation has emerged as a viable solution to reach distant stroke populations. Motor recovery relies on penumbral reorganization and restructuring. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in regulating synaptic plasticity. However, the impact of additional rehabilitation sessions on BDNF levels and motor function in post-stroke patients remains unexplored.

Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted from June to September 2023, involving 50 patients with stroke. A medical history was assessed using a questionnaire, and motor function was evaluated using the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA). Blood samples were collected to measure BDNF levels. The intervention included prescribing home-based exercises using a telerehabilitation application on cell phones for 12 weeks. BDNF levels and FMA scores were reassessed at the end of the study.

Results: Significant increases in BDNF and FMA scores were observed in the mobile-based telerehabilitation group. The increase in BDNF and FMA levels in the intervention group exceeded that of the control group.

Conclusion: Mobile-based telerehabilitation is superior to conventional home exercise programs for delivering home-based therapeutic exercises