The effect of intensive training on lower extremity motor function and post-stroke depression of stroke survivors

Abstract

Objective To observe the effect of intensive training on lower extremity motor function and depression after stroke. Methods Thirty patients with post-stroke depression were randomly divided into an intensive training group and a control group, each of 15. Both groups received conventional anti-stroke and antidepressant drug therapy, and rehabilitation training. The intensive training group, however, was additionally provided with lower extremity motor function training each day. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA), 10-meter maximum walking speed test (10MWT) and the Holden functional ambulation categories (FAC) were conducted before treatment, and 2 and 4 weeks after the treatment. The level of human β-endophin (β-EP) and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the serum were also detected. Results After 4 weeks of treatment, the FAM, 10MWT, BDNF and β-EP were significantly improved in both groups compared to those before the treatment (P 0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, the FAM (20.67±6.79), 10MWT[(0.48±0.22)m/s], BDNF[(10.81±2.33)μg/L]and β-EP[(164.02±42.15)ng/L]of the intensive training group were significantly improved compared to those of the control group (P 0.05). Conclusion The intensive training can improve motor function and relieve post-stroke depression of stroke survivors. It is worth promoting and applying in clinical practice. Key words: Post-stroke depression; Intensive training; Lower extremity function