The approach of occupational therapists who apply the Perfetti method in adults with spastic hemiplegia as a sequela of stroke

Stroke was considered one of the leading causes of acquired disability in adulthood, due to persistent sequelae that compromised autonomy, social participation, and quality of life. Among the most frequent manifestations were motor alterations of the upper limb, sensory disorders, cognitive difficulties, and limitations in the performance of activities of daily living (ADL), with spastic hemiplegia being a significant challenge for rehabilitation practice. In this context, occupational therapy assumed a central role in guiding intervention toward functional recovery and occupational adaptation. The objective of this study was to analyze the results of Cognitive Therapeutic Exercise or the Perfetti Method, applied by occupational therapy professionals in adult patients between 50 and 65 years of age with sequelae of spastic hemiplegia in the upper limbs. A quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental, cross-sectional study was conducted with a non-probabilistic, intentional sample of twenty occupational therapists with experience in applying the technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire sent by email, which investigated aspects related to professional background, type of intervention, and perception of the method's effectiveness. The results showed that professionals perceived positive effects of the Perfetti method in the rehabilitation of this population. At the sensory level, improvements were mainly observed after the fourth treatment session, while changes in the functionality of the affected limb, cognitive functions, and the performance of ADLs were most frequently observed between the fifth and tenth sessions. In conclusion, the Perfetti Method was assessed as an effective and recommendable therapeutic strategy, providing significant benefits in the comprehensive rehabilitation of adult patients with post-stroke spastic hemiplegia.