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Trunk Stabilization Training Using Visual Feedback on an Unstable Surface Improves Balance and Trunk Stability of Chronic Stroke Patients

Jihye Jung, Wonjae Choi, Seungwon Lee

Med Sci Tech 2015; 56:37-42

DOI: 10.12659/MST.893523

Available online: 2015-03-05

Published: 2015-03-05


#893523

BACKGROUND: Stroke patients have asymmetrical posture due to hemiplegia, which influences balance while in the sitting position. Maintaining balance during sitting is a necessary element in independent performance. This study investigated the effects of trunk stabilization training using visual feedback on an unstable surface to improve balance and trunk stability of individuals with chronic stroke debility.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-six patients after stroke were enrolled and randomly allocated to a training group and a control group. Participants in both groups performed patient-specific therapeutic exercise for 5 days per week, 1 hour per day, for 4 weeks. Participants in the training group received trunk stabilization training using visual feedback while sitting on an unstable surface, in addition to therapeutic exercise (3 times per week, for 20 minutes each session). Outcome measures were trunk control ability using a trunk impairment scale (TIS), the static sitting balance represented as postural sway velocity, and the dynamic sitting balance using a modified functional reach arm test.

RESULTS: TIS was significantly greater in the training group than in the control group (p<.05). Static sitting balance of the training group was significantly improved only in the mediolateral sway velocity with eyes closed (p<.05). Dynamic sitting balance showed significant differences in the comparison between groups (p<.05).
CONCLUSIONS: Trunk stabilization training using visual feedback improved sitting balance and the ability to control the trunk of patients in the sitting position. This training would be an effective way to exercise in order to promote functional activity in the sitting position.

Keywords: Feedback, Sensory, postural balance, Stroke



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