Prior to treatment, one patient could grasp and move an average of eight blocks in three separate trials, but after the monitor tests the average increased to 18. The study subjects are all from the Twin Cities area and are required to have some initial finger movement. A subject cannot have metal in the body and must be at least six months removed from the stroke. Kirsten Ness, professor of physical medicine, said the treatment helps map patients' brains. According to the American Heart Association, more than 11,000 Minnesotans suffered a stroke in 1998.
Strokes are the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States.