The effectiveness of a robotic tilt table on the muscle strength and quality of life in individuals following stroke: a randomised control trial

Abstract

Background/AimsStroke is a common, serious and disabling condition. There is a need for early rehabilitation to cut the long-term ill effects of stroke and to maximise functional recovery. This study aimed to assess the effect of Erigo tilt table training on muscle strength and quality of life in individuals who have survived a stroke.MethodsA total of 133 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to receive conventional physiotherapy (group A) or Erigo tilt table training (group B). Both groups underwent an intervention programme lasting 30 days. Quality of life and muscle strength were assessed at baseline (day 0), at the end of the intervention (day 30) and at follow up (day 90).ResultsOverall, 110 patients completed the study: 55 in group A and 55 in group B. Quality of life and muscle strength significantly improved between baseline and follow up with both interventions. Group A's quality of life and upper and lower muscle strength scores increased from 75, 0.57 and 1.0 at baseline to 89, 3.0 and 3.5 at follow up, respectively; while group B's scores increased from 75, 1.35 and 1.43 at baseline to 102, 3.0 and 3.64 at follow up. The Erigo tilt table resulted in significantly greater improvements than conventional physiotherapy (P<0.01).ConclusionsThe Erigo tilt-table could be valuable tool in the early rehabilitation of patients with acute hemiplegia as it improves muscle strength and quality of life to a greater extent than conventional physiotherapy.