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Zhou Y, Ren H, Hou X, Dong X, Zhang S, Lv Y, Li C, Yu L. The effect of exercise on balance function in stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Neurol 2024; 271:4751-4768. [PMID: 38834700 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12467-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A growing body of studies has examined the effect of exercise on balance function in stroke patients, with conflicting findings. This study aimed to investigate the effect of exercise on balance function in stroke patients and to determine the optimal exercise prescription for stroke patients. METHODS We conducted an extensive search across various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, Cochrane, and Scopus. The search was conducted until March 11th, 2024. Data were pooled using the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval. RESULTS Twenty-nine studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Exercise significantly improved Berg balance scale (BBS, WMD, 5.24, P < 0.00001) and timed up and go test (TUG, WMD, - 2.91, P < 0.00001) in stroke patients. Subgroup analyses showed that aerobic exercise (WMD, 6.71, P = 0.003), exercise conducted ≥ 8 weeks (WMD, 6.43, P < 0.00001), > 3 times per week (WMD, 6.18, P < 0.00001), ≥ 60 min per session (WMD, 6.40, P < 0.0001), and ≥ 180 min per week (WMD, 7.49, P < 0.00001) were more effective in improving BBS. CONCLUSIONS Exercise improved balance function in stroke patients, and aerobic exercise might be the most effective intervention. To improve balance function, this meta-analysis provides clinicians with evidence to recommend that stroke patients participate in a minimum of 8 weeks of exercise at least 3 times per week for more than 60 min per session, with a goal of 180 min per week being achieved by increasing the frequency of exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Physical Fitness and Exercise, Ministry of Education, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- Department of Strength and Conditioning Assessment and Monitoring, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Ren
- Department of Strength and Conditioning Assessment and Monitoring, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Hou
- School of Sport Sciences, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaosheng Dong
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- National Health Commission of China Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shiyan Zhang
- Department of Strength and Conditioning Assessment and Monitoring, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Lv
- China Institute of Sport and Health Science, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Cui Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Laikang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Physical Fitness and Exercise, Ministry of Education, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China.
- Department of Strength and Conditioning Assessment and Monitoring, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China.
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Carson RG, Morley A. Is a mirror necessary for mirror therapy? Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:2703-2704. [PMID: 37449631 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.373701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Richard G Carson
- Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience and School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Alannah Morley
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Liu S, Yu H, Wang Z, Dai P. Correlation analysis of balance function with plantar pressure distribution and gait parameters in patients with cerebral infarction in the basal ganglia region. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1099843. [PMID: 36908774 PMCID: PMC9998687 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1099843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To analyze the correlation between balance function and gait parameters of patients with basal ganglia infarction. And to observe the influence of balance function on plantar pressure and hemiplegia gait based on the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) score. Methods One hundred and forty patients with cerebral infarction hemiplegia in the basal ganglia region (a study group, n = 140) and healthy people (a control group, n = 140) were enrolled. The study group was evaluated with the BBS, the 10 m walking test (10MWT), and the timed up-and-go test (TUGT). The gait parameters and the peak plantar pressure were measured in both groups while walking, and the differences between the groups were compared. In addition, the characteristics of the plantar pressure curve of the hemiplegic and non-hemiplegic sides during walking and the correlation between the 10MWT, the TUGT, the plantar pressure peak, the gait parameters,and the BBS score were analyzed in the study group. Results The peak plantar pressure of the forefoot and heel, stride length, lateral symmetry, stand phase, swing phase, and dual stand phase of both sides in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The BBS score negatively correlated with the 10MWT, the TUGT, the peak plantar pressure of the hemiplegic forefoot, midfoot, and the non-hemiplegic midfoot, the anterior to posterior position (ant/post position), hemiplegic stand phase, and the dual stand phase (P < 0.05). The BBS score positively correlated with the hemiplegic swing phase and stride length (P < 0.05). Conclusion A correlation was found between the forefoot plantar pressure and the stand phase of the hemiplegic limbs, the ant/post position, and the balance function after basal ganglion cerebral infarction. This association can be used in walking and balance assessment for stroke rehabilitation. Correcting forefoot pressure or the front and ant/post position can improve balance function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Huixian Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Shao C, Wang Y, Gou H, Xiao H, Chen T. Strength Training of the Nonhemiplegic Side Promotes Motor Function Recovery in Patients With Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 104:188-194. [PMID: 36261056 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2022.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To observe the effect of strength training of the nonhemiplegic side (NHS) on balance function, mobility, and muscle strength of patients with stroke. DESIGN A single-blinded (evaluator) randomized controlled trial. SETTING A tertiary hospital rehabilitation center. PARTICIPANTS 139 patients with first stroke (N=139) were recruited and randomly separated into a trial (n=69) or control group (n=70). INTERVENTIONS The control group underwent usual rehabilitation training, including step training and trunk control training in standing position. The trial group underwent strength training of NHS on the basis of usual rehabilitation training. The strength training of NHS included lower limb stepping training with resisting elastic belt and upper limb pulling elastic belt training in standing position. The training for both groups was 45 min, once a day, 5 days a week for 6 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Balance evaluation was done with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS); mobility assessment with the 6-minute walk test (6-MWT); activities of daily life was examined via the modified Barthel Index (MBI); muscle strengths of the biceps brachii, iliopsoas, and quadriceps were measured via the isokinetic muscle strength testing system. All assessments were performed at baseline (T0) and after intervention (T1). RESULTS The trial group performed better than control group in BBS scores (adjusted mean difference: 6.83; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.71-8.94) and 6-MWT (adjusted mean difference: 50.32; 95% CI: 40.58-60.05) after intervention. In terms of muscle strength of the hemiplegic side, the trial group displayed greater gains in biceps brachii, iliopsoas, and quadriceps than control group after intervention. CONCLUSION Strength training of the NHS can promote recovery of balance, mobility, and muscle strength of the paretic side of patients with stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenlan Shao
- The Rehabilitation Medicine Center, People's Hospital of Deyang City, Deyang, China.
| | - Yongzheng Wang
- The Rehabilitation Medicine Center, People's Hospital of Deyang City, Deyang, China
| | - Hui Gou
- The Rehabilitation Medicine Center, People's Hospital of Deyang City, Deyang, China
| | - Hua Xiao
- The Rehabilitation Medicine Center, People's Hospital of Deyang City, Deyang, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- The Rehabilitation Medicine Center, People's Hospital of Deyang City, Deyang, China
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Loro A, Borg MB, Battaglia M, Amico AP, Antenucci R, Benanti P, Bertoni M, Bissolotti L, Boldrini P, Bonaiuti D, Bowman T, Capecci M, Castelli E, Cavalli L, Cinone N, Cosenza L, Di Censo R, Di Stefano G, Draicchio F, Falabella V, Filippetti M, Galeri S, Gimigliano F, Grigioni M, Invernizzi M, Jonsdottir J, Lentino C, Massai P, Mazzoleni S, Mazzon S, Molteni F, Morelli S, Morone G, Nardone A, Panzeri D, Petrarca M, Posteraro F, Santamato A, Scotti L, Senatore M, Spina S, Taglione E, Turchetti G, Varalta V, Picelli A, Baricich A. Balance Rehabilitation through Robot-Assisted Gait Training in Post-Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13010092. [PMID: 36672074 PMCID: PMC9856764 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13010092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Balance impairment is a common disability in post-stroke survivors, leading to reduced mobility and increased fall risk. Robotic gait training (RAGT) is largely used, along with traditional training. There is, however, no strong evidence about RAGT superiority, especially on balance. This study aims to determine RAGT efficacy on balance of post-stroke survivors. METHODS PubMed, Cochrane Library, and PeDRO databases were investigated. Randomized clinical trials evaluating RAGT efficacy on post-stroke survivor balance with Berg Balance Scale (BBS) or Timed Up and Go test (TUG) were searched. Meta-regression analyses were performed, considering weekly sessions, single-session duration, and robotic device used. RESULTS A total of 18 trials have been included. BBS pre-post treatment mean difference is higher in RAGT-treated patients, with a pMD of 2.17 (95% CI 0.79; 3.55). TUG pre-post mean difference is in favor of RAGT, but not statistically, with a pMD of -0.62 (95%CI - 3.66; 2.43). Meta-regression analyses showed no relevant association, except for TUG and treatment duration (β = -1.019, 95% CI - 1.827; -0.210, p-value = 0.0135). CONCLUSIONS RAGT efficacy is equal to traditional therapy, while the combination of the two seems to lead to better outcomes than each individually performed. Robot-assisted balance training should be the focus of experimentation in the following years, given the great results in the first available trials. Given the massive heterogeneity of included patients, trials with more strict inclusion criteria (especially time from stroke) must be performed to finally define if and when RAGT is superior to traditional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Loro
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Correspondence: or
| | - Margherita Beatrice Borg
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Marco Battaglia
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Amico
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Polyclinic of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Antenucci
- Rehabilitation Unit, Castel San Giovanni Hospital, 29015 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Paolo Benanti
- Theology Department, Pontifical Gregorian University, 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Bertoni
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Luciano Bissolotti
- Casa di Cura Domus Salutis, Fondazione Teresa Camplani, 25100 Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Boldrini
- Robotic Rehabilitation Section, Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (SIMFER), 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Bonaiuti
- Robotic Rehabilitation Section, Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (SIMFER), 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Thomas Bowman
- Neurorehabilitation Department, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Marianna Capecci
- Experimental and Clinic Medicine Department, Università Politecnica delle Marche (UNIVPM), 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Enrico Castelli
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Cavalli
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Centro Giusti, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Cinone
- Unit of Spasticity and Movement Disorders, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Lucia Cosenza
- Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Rehabilitation, “Santi Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo” National Hospital, 15122 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Rita Di Censo
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Di Stefano
- Robotic Rehabilitation Section, Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (SIMFER), 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Draicchio
- Dipartimento Medicina, Epidemiologia, Igiene del Lavoro e Ambientale, Istituto Nazionale Assicurazione Infortuni sul Lavoro (INAIL), 00192 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Falabella
- Italian Federation of Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries (FISH), 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Mirko Filippetti
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Silvia Galeri
- Neurorehabilitation Department, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Gimigliano
- Department of Physical and Mental Health and Prevention Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, 81100 Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Grigioni
- Department of New Technologies in Public Healthcare, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Invernizzi
- Translational Medicine, Dipartimento Attività Integrate Ricerca e Innovazione (DAIRI), Azienda Ospedaliera Santi Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, 15122 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Johanna Jonsdottir
- Neurorehabilitation Department, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Carmelo Lentino
- Rehabilitation Unit, Santa Corona Hospital, 17027 Pietra Ligure, Italy
| | - Perla Massai
- Tuscany Rehabilitation Clinic, 52025 Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzoleni
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Polytechnic University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56025 Pontedera, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzon
- Azienda Unità Locale Socio Sanitaria Euganea (AULSS 6), 35100 Padua, Italy
| | - Franco Molteni
- Rehabilitation Department, Valduce Villa Beretta Hospital, 23845 Costa Masnaga, Italy
| | - Sandra Morelli
- Department of New Technologies in Public Healthcare, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Morone
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Nardone
- Pediatric, Diagnostical and Clinical-Surgical Sciences Department, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Istituto Clinico-Scientifico Maugeri SPA IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniele Panzeri
- Pediatric Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, 23842 Bosisio Parini, Italy
| | - Maurizio Petrarca
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Santamato
- Unit of Spasticity and Movement Disorders, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Lorenza Scotti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Michele Senatore
- Italian Association of Occupational Therapists (AITO), 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Spina
- Unit of Spasticity and Movement Disorders, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Elisa Taglione
- Rehabilitation Unit, Istituto Nazionale Assicurazione Infortuni sul Lavoro (INAIL), 56048 Volterra, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Varalta
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Picelli
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Alessio Baricich
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Dumont AJL, Cimolin V, Parreira RB, Armbrust D, Fonseca DRP, Fonseca AL, Cordeiro L, Franco RC, Duarte NAC, Galli M, Oliveira CS. Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined with Treadmill Training on Kinematics and Spatiotemporal Gait Variables in Stroke Survivors: A Randomized, Triple-Blind, Sham-Controlled Study. Brain Sci 2022; 13:brainsci13010011. [PMID: 36671993 PMCID: PMC9856811 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study assessed the effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with treadmill training on spatiotemporal and kinematic variables in stroke survivors using gait speed as the primary outcome. A randomized, sham-controlled, triple-blind, study was conducted involving 28 patients with hemiparesis allocated to two groups. The experimental group was submitted to treadmill training combined with anodal tDCS over the primary motor cortex (M1) of the damaged hemisphere. The control group was submitted to treadmill training combined with sham tDCS. Stimulation was administered (2 mA, 20 min) five times a week for two weeks during treadmill training. No significant differences (p > 0.05) in spatiotemporal variables were found in the intra-group and inter-group analyses. However, the experimental group demonstrated improvements in kinematic variables of the knee and ankle (p < 0.05) and these results were maintained one month after the end of the intervention. The inter-group analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) with regard to the pelvis, hip and knee. Anodal tDCS over M1 of the damaged hemisphere combined with treadmill training did not affect spatiotemporal variables, but promoted improvements in kinematic variables of the pelvis, hip, knee and ankle and results were maintained one month after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Veronica Cimolin
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, S. Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy
| | - Rodolfo Borges Parreira
- Health Sciences Program, Santa Casa School of Medical Sciences of São Paulo, St. Jaguaribe 155, São Paulo 01224-001, Brazil
| | - Danilo Armbrust
- Health Sciences Program, Santa Casa School of Medical Sciences of São Paulo, St. Jaguaribe 155, São Paulo 01224-001, Brazil
| | - Daniela Rosana Pedro Fonseca
- Human Movement and Rehabilitation, Post-Graduate Program Medical School, Evangelic University of Goiás—UniEVANGÉLICA, Anápolis 75083-515, Brazil
| | - Adriano Luís Fonseca
- Human Movement and Rehabilitation, Post-Graduate Program Medical School, Evangelic University of Goiás—UniEVANGÉLICA, Anápolis 75083-515, Brazil
| | - Lorraine Cordeiro
- Human Movement and Rehabilitation, Post-Graduate Program Medical School, Evangelic University of Goiás—UniEVANGÉLICA, Anápolis 75083-515, Brazil
| | - Renata Calhes Franco
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, University Center of Americas, Campus Consolação, Street Augusta 1508, São Paulo 01304-001, Brazil
| | - Natália Almeida Carvalho Duarte
- Human Movement and Rehabilitation, Post-Graduate Program Medical School, Evangelic University of Goiás—UniEVANGÉLICA, Anápolis 75083-515, Brazil
| | - Manuela Galli
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Cláudia Santos Oliveira
- Human Movement and Rehabilitation, Post-Graduate Program Medical School, Evangelic University of Goiás—UniEVANGÉLICA, Anápolis 75083-515, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-(62)-3310-6600
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Medina-Mirapeix F, Crisostomo MJ, Martín San Agustín R, Sánchez-Martínez MP. Prognostic value of balance performance for improvements of community ambulation among stroke patients: a cohort study. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2022; 58:171-178. [PMID: 34498829 PMCID: PMC9980493 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.21.06996-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the positive impact of improving the level of community ambulation among stroke patients, little prognostic research has focused on this indicator. AIM To investigate the prognostic value of the side-by-side, semi-tandem, and tandem standing balance positions and the five-sit-stand (5STS) test for discriminating patients undergoing physical rehabilitation who improve level of functional ambulation and predicting transition time. DESIGN A cohort study with assessments repeated monthly until discharge for classifying patients in a community ambulation class. SETTING A neurological rehabilitation unit of a hospital in Spain. POPULATION A consecutive sample of 109 stroke patients (68.5±12.0 years) was screened and included within four months post stroke. Of them no one refused, 3 died, and 5 were lost earlier to transition or discharge. METHODS Balance tests, the 5STS and gait speed were measured at the center at baseline and monthly until discharge. Transition from household or limited community ambulation to a higher ambulatory capacity or class. Area under the curve (AUC) were used to compare discriminative abilities of the tests and Cox regression analysis to evaluate the association between the tests and time of transition. RESULTS For household non-ambulators, the semi-tandem was the best discriminative test (AUC=0.850) and the three balance tests showed an association with time to transition. Among the limited community ambulators, the 5STS test also revealed discriminative ability (AUC: 0.822 [0.63-1.00]), with a good prognostic cut-off (14.8 seconds) and association with time to transition (Hazard Ratio: 1.22; 95%CI: 1.05-1.43). CONCLUSIONS Semi-tandem and the 5STS tests can discriminate patients who improve level of functional ambulation and predict transition times within three months in non-ambulators and limited community ambulation patients, respectively. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT The semi-tandem and the 5STS tests can be performed easily in clinical settings to predict improvement of functional ambulation level in patients following stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M José Crisostomo
- Department of Rehabilitation, Jerez Hospital, Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
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Necessity and Content of Swing Phase Gait Coordination Training Post Stroke; A Case Report. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11111498. [PMID: 34827497 PMCID: PMC8615654 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Problem: Standard neurorehabilitation and gait training has not proved effective in restoring normal gait coordination for many stroke survivors. Rather, persistent gait dyscoordination occurs, with associated poor function, and progressively deteriorating quality of life. One difficulty is the array of symptoms exhibited by stroke survivors with gait deficits. Some researchers have addressed lower limb weakness following stroke with exercises designed to strengthen muscles, with the expectation of improving gait. However, gait dyscoordination in many stroke survivors appears to result from more than straightforward muscle weakness. PURPOSE Thus, the purpose of this case study is to report results of long-duration gait coordination training in an individual with initial good strength, but poor gait swing phase hip/knee and ankle coordination. METHODS Mr. X was enrolled at >6 months after a left hemisphere ischemic stroke. Gait deficits included a 'stiff-legged gait' characterized by the absence of hip and knee flexion during right mid-swing, despite the fact that he showed good initial strength in right lower limb quadriceps, hamstrings, and ankle dorsiflexors. Treatment was provided 4 times/week for 1.5 h, for 12 weeks. The combined treatment included the following: motor learning exercises designed for coordination training of the lower limb; functional electrical stimulation (FES) assisted practice; weight-supported coordination practice; and over-ground and treadmill walking. The FES was used as an adjunct to enhance muscle response during motor learning and prior to volitional recovery of motor control. Weight-supported treadmill training was administered to titrate weight and pressure applied at the joints and to the plantar foot surface during stance phase and pre-swing phase of the involved limb. Later in the protocol, treadmill training was administered to improve speed of movement during the gait cycle. Response to treatment was assessed through an array of impairment, functional mobility, and life role participation measures. RESULTS At post-treatment, Mr. X exhibited some recovery of hip, knee, and ankle coordination during swing phase according to kinematic measures, and the stiff-legged gait was resolved. Muscle strength measures remained essentially constant throughout the study. The modified Ashworth scale showed improved knee extensor tone from baseline of 1 to normal (0) at post-treatment. Gait coordination overall improved by 12 points according to the Gait Assessment and Intervention Tool, Six Minute Walk Test improved by 532', and the Stroke Impact Scale improved by 12 points, including changes in daily activities; mobility; and meaningful activities. DISCUSSION Through the combined use of motor learning exercises, FES, weight-support, and treadmill training, coordination of the right lower limb improved sufficiently to exhibit a more normal swing phase, reducing the probability of falls, and subsequent downwardly spiraling dysfunction. The recovery of lower limb coordination during swing phase illustrates what is possible when strength is sufficient and when coordination training is targeted in a carefully titrated, highly incrementalized manner. Conclusions/Contribution to the Field: This case study contributes to the literature in several ways: (1) illustrates combined interventions for gait training and response to treatment; (2) provides supporting case evidence of relationships among knee flexion coordination, swing phase coordination, functional mobility, and quality of life; (3) illustrates that strength is necessary, but not sufficient to restore coordinated gait swing phase after stroke in some stroke survivors; and (4) provides details regarding coordination training and progression of gait training treatment for stroke survivors.
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