Comparison of Visual and Auditory Biofeedback during Sit-to-stand Training for Performance and Balance in Chronic Stroke Patients

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the comparison of visual and auditory biofeedback during sit-to-stand training in patients with stroke. METHODS: Thirty-five subjects with chronic stroke were divided into three groups: a visual feedback group (12 subjects), an auditory feedback group (12 subjects) and a control group (11 subjects). All Groups received neurodevelopmental treatment, and sit-to-stand training for 30minutes three times a week for four weeks. During the sit to stand training, the experimental groups received visual feedback and auditory feedback, whereas the control group performed sit-to-stand training without feedback. Five times sit-to-stand test (FTSST), motion analysis and postural sway during sit-to-stand were used to evaluate sit to stand performance ability. In addition, Berg balance scale (BBS) was performed for evaluation of balance function in participants. RESULTS: All groups showed significant increase on FTSST and BBS between pre- and post-intervention. The BBS scores in visual feedback group was significant increase than control group. The motion analysis and postural sway, more improvement was observed in the visual and auditory feedback groups compared with the control group. The only visual feedback group was a better performance of midline excursion during sit-to-stand than control group. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that sit-to-stand training using a biofeedback may help to improve sit to stand performance and balance ability of stroke patients.