Effect of underwater treadmill program on gait speed, balance and lower extremity function in stroke patients

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether using an underwater treadmill program could enhance gait speed, balance and lower extremity function. Study design: Randomized control trial. Methods: Forty post-stroke male patients with abnormalities in gait and balance were divided randomly into two equal groups: Study group (A): was given a program for an underwater treadmill. A treadmill program on the ground was given to the control group (B). The ten-meter walk test was used to assess the gait speed of patients in both groups. Assessment of functional capacity utilizing the lower extremity functional scale and the Posturomed device for balance. For all groups, assessments were performed before and after the four-week therapy period. Results: Post treatment results revealed a significant increase in gait speed in both groups but no significant difference between them. More significant increase in balance and lower extremity function in the study group (A) than in control group (B) Conclusion: Underwater treadmill training program is an effective program in improving, balance, gait speed and lower extremity function in stroke patients.