Effect of lower limb sensory training on postural stability in stroke patients

Abstract

Background: Cerebrovascular accident (Stroke) incidence is rapidly increasing and is considered to be one of the leading causes of death and physical impairment on a global level. These impairments aren’t limited to motor weakness but can also include impairments in somatosensory functions essential for producing accurate and specific motor actions. Aim of the study: To determine the efficacy of lower limb sensory training on postural stability in stroke patients. Procedures: Thirty male ambulant patients with ischemic stroke in the distribution of anterior circulation with a modified Ashworth scale not exceeding 1+. The ages of the participants were between 50-65 years. They were recruited three to six months from the onset of their symptoms. Then, they were assigned randomly into two equal groups, study group (A) and control group (B). The patients in the study group (A) have been given a combination of a sensory-based intervention program for the affected lower limb and a carefully selected physical therapy program. Control group (B) patients were treated with the same selected physical therapy program. The treatment was executed three sessions per week for six weeks. Each session was done in a 90 minutes window.