Balance training after stroke
Standing balance deficits are common after stroke. One way to address these deficits is to provide feedback from a force platform while balance activities are performed.
In this study by researchers at the Ankara Numune Education and Research Hospital in Turkey, combining balance training (using force platform biofeedback) with a conventional rehabilitation program did not provide additional benefits.
First, the details.
- 41 institutionalized older stroke patients with partial paralysis affecting only one side of the body were randomly assigned to treatment.
- The control group participated in a conventional stroke inpatient rehabilitation program.
- The experimental group received 15 sessions of balance training (using force platform biofeedback) in addition to the conventional program.
And, the results.
- Motor recovery, mobility, and activity level improved significantly in both groups.
- But there was no difference in improvement between groups.
The bottom line?
By comparison, a Cochrane review concluded, “Force platform feedback (visual or auditory) improved stance symmetry but not sway in standing, clinical balance outcomes or measures of independence.”
6/6/08 22:51 JR