The Effects of Realignment at Paretic Lower Extremity on Balance and Gait in Hemiplegic Patients

Abstract

Purpose This study was to investigate the realignment program is effect on rehabilitation of the weight bearing in the standing position, balance and gait for hemiplegic patients. Methods Twenty subjects (mean age 45.15±18.33) were randomly recruited and the subjects were divided into a realignment group and a control group. The subjects for the realignment group were participated in the realignment exercise program for 8 weeks, and the control group were treated general exercise program. They were assessed weight bearing(Messen Trairuieren Dokumentieren System), dynamic balance(Berg balance scale, Timed Up & Go) and gait velocity pre and post-treatment. Results 1. For the weight bearing in the standing position using MTD System, the affected sides was improved from 46.78±4.74 % to 50±5.5 %, the unaffected sides was decreased from 53.22±4.74 % to 50±5.5 %, there was a significance in both sides(p<.05). 2. The BBS was decreased from 44.33±6.02 points before the treatment to 51±4.15 points after it, which had a significant meaning(p<.05) in the realignment group. 3. The TUG test was decreased from 46.15±34.52 seconds before the treatment to 39.95±34.42 seconds after it, which had a significant meaning(p<.05) in the realignment group. 5. The 10mWT was improved from 0.45±0.32 m/sec before the treatment to 0.61±0.55m/sec after it, there was a significance in the realignment group(p<.05). Conclusion These finding suggest that symmetrical alignment at lower extremity can serve as an effective means of improving the weight bearing in the standing position, balance and gait ability of hemiplegic patients.