Examination of static and dynamic balance of brain injured patients in elastic space

Abstract

The partial or complete loss of static and dynamic balance after vascular or traumatic brain injury is an important dysfunction in neurorehabilitation. The balance skills significantly contribute to gait ability, which determines the patient's living conditions and return to normal daily activities. The recovery of standing stability and walking ability are the most important elements of rehabilitation after brain injury. The purpose of this examination is to show the key elements of core stabilization, postural control, balance and coordination exercises with the use of vertical suspension and to analyze the effects with some tests among hemiparetic and ataxic patients. Twenty patients were assigned for follow-up study in 2 treatment groups (10 hemiparetic, 10 ataxic) and they completed average 30 minutes of special treatment (exercises in elastic space), 5 times a week over a period of 6 weeks. During the research the previously used conventional therapies were unchanged. In order to document the changes in the state of locomotion we used the following: transfers and locomotion items of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Fugl–Meyer Balance, Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia and Stabilometer device. Therapeutic exercises in elastic space were useful for both groups with regard to static and dynamic balance and stability of standing, however, better results were observed in the group of ataxic patients. The bigger difference over the obtained outcomes was demonstrated rather in the locomotion item of FIM and in the measurements of Stabilometer. The stability provided by springs and elastic ropes significantly contributes to proprioception and accurate body awareness in space. Based on our observations the elastic space formed with vertical suspension continuously stimulates the sensory system, which can develop new neuromuscular connections that can greatly improve balance, postural control and gait.