Static Balance Research Articles

Аналіз розвитку основних рухових якостей жінок-військовослужбовців в період правового режиму воєнного стану

The article examines and analyzes the development of basic motor qualities in 30 female military members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine under the conditions of the legal regime of martial law. The average age of the participants was 30.8±2.6 years. The aim of the study was to analyze the development of strength, endurance, and coordination abilities. To achieve the stated goal, the following research methods were used: analysis of scientificmethodical literature, analysis of requirements for the development of basic motor qualities in modern combat conditions, summarizing the advanced experience in the theory and organization of physical training of military personnel, pedagogical testing, application of stabilography method, and methods of mathematical statistics. Results. The analysis of endurance development in female military personnel was conducted based on the performance in a 1 km run. The median time to complete the distance was 5.45 min, indicating a low level, and corresponded to only 58 out of 100 possible points on\ the rating scale. It was found that 23.3 % (n = 7) of the participants completed the distance in 6.35 min to 7.14 min and could score only 38 points or less. The median result in the strength endurance exercise test No. 21 was 78 points. It is important to note that among the study participants, no military servicewomen were found who could score the maximum number of points in the range of 95-100 for the performance of any control exercise. Our results indicate that the physical training program requires correction to improve the level of development of basic motor qualities in this category of military personnel. Analysis of static spatial stability of the body in female military personnel, which involved comparing the results of two tests with open and closed eyes, showed statistically significant changes in the majority of the investigated indicators. The center of pressure (CoP) sway length and CoP mean velocity showed an increase of 401.0 mm (p < 0.001) and an increase from 5.4 mm·s-1 t o 9.1 mm·s-1 respectively (p < 0.001) in the test with closed eyes, indicating the significant influence of the visual analyzer on static stability and the dynamics of the body’s CoP sway. Additionally, the quality of balance function, showed a statistically significant decrease to 72.3 % in the test with closed eyes compared to the result of 90.1 % in the test with open eyes (p < 0.001). The comprehensive study of static spatial stability in female military personnel included the Romberg test, which is a classical method for assessing static balance. It was found that 23.3 % of the participants had above-average results, 40 % were within the norm, and 36.7 % showed below-average results, indicating the need for improvement of methods for training static balance in this category. Conclusion. T he o btained r esults o f t he study of the development of basic motor qualities in female military personnel under the conditions of the legal regime of martial law are an important contribution to the scientific discourse and are relevant for the practical activities of military personnel.

Validity and reliability of the Balance Error Score System (BESS) Thai version in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain.

Neck pain has been found to affect the somatosensory system, which can lead to impaired balance control. To assess the balance of patients with neck pain and other conditions, the balance error scoring system (BESS) is commonly used as a static balance measurement tool. However, this tool is seldom used in Thailand due to its English language format. To translate and determine the content, convergent validity, and reliability of a Thai version of the BESS tool. A process of cross-cultural adaptation was utilized to translate BESS into a Thai version, called BESS-TH. To assess content validity, five physical therapy lecturers specializing in the musculoskeletal field used BESS to measure balance in participants with neck pain. For the convergent validity process, 130 patients diagnosed with chronic non-specific neck pain (CNSNP) were randomly assessed using four static balance tests (BESS, Single-leg balance test (SLBT), Romberg test, and Tandem stance test). For reliability, two assessors with varying years of work experience independently assessed videos of the participants twice using the BESS-TH, with a minimum 7-day interval between assessments. The BESS-TH used to assess balance of patients with neck pain demonstrated acceptable content validity (index of item objective congruence (IOC) = 0.87). The Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient was calculated between the BESS-TH and three other measures: the SLBT with eyes open and eyes closed, the Romberg test with eyes open and eyes closed, and the Tandem stance test with eyes open and Tandem stance test with eyes closed. The values obtained were as follows: -0.672, -0.712, -0.367, -0.529, -0.570, and -0.738, respectively. The inter-rater and intra-rater reliability were 0.922 (95% CI = 0.864-0.956) and 0.971 (95% CI = 0.950-0.983), respectively. Minimum detectable change (MDC) for the total BESS score of inter-rater and intra-rater reliability were 7.16 and 4.34 points, respectively. The BESS-Thai version was acceptable, reliable, and valid for evaluating balance performance in patients with CNSNP. This tool can be used and applied to clinically evaluate postural control in Thailand.

Impact d’un atelier ‘équilibre’ au sein d’un service de soins médicaux et de réadaptation : étude pilote rétrospective

Introduction: According to public health data from 2020, nearly 10,000 people aged 65 and over die each year as a result of a fall. A national plan to prevent falls has therefore been put in place with aim of reducing mortality due to falls by 20% by 2024.Objective: The objective of this retrospective pilot study was to assess the relevance and effectiveness of a ‘balance workshop’ in medical care and rehabilitation service in line with the national plan.Results: The study showed a significant improvement in knowledge of the risk of falls as well as static and dynamic balance of the elderly participants in the workshop.Conclusion: This study confirms the results of previous studies, underlines the interest of using ‘balance workshops’ as a vector for improving knowledge of the risk of falls and demonstrates the usefulness of ‘balance workshops’ in medical care and rehabilitation services.Level of evidence: 5

Muscular strength, balance, and functionality in post-COVID-19 patients: An observational case-control protocol

Background: Persistent and systemic impairments have been reported in individuals recovering from COVID-19, including balance and muscle strength dysfunctions. However, the implications for static and dynamic Balance and their potential associations with muscle strength and functional assessments in patients with severe disease during the acute phase remain poorly understood in the existing scientific literature. Objectives: This study evaluates static and dynamic balance, lower limb muscle strength, and physical capacity in post COVID volunteers who experienced severe and critical forms of the disease. Additionally, it seeks to identify potential correlations between functional outcomes and demographic characteristics. Methods: This observational case-control study will enroll individuals who had experienced severe and critical forms of COVID-19 during the acute phase of the illness. Static Balance will be assessed using a Portable Baropodometry and Stabilometry platform, while dynamic Balance will be evaluated through the MiniBest Test. Muscle strength will be measured by Isometric Quadriceps Muscle Strength during contraction of knee extension, flexion, and physical capacity utilizing the 1-minute Sit-to-Stand Test (1MST). Hypothesis: We hypothesize that Long COVID volunteers who endured severe and critical forms of the disease during the acute phase will exhibit: 1)Impaired static and dynamic Balance compared to a control group of individuals without a history of COVID-19, as evidenced by significantly different scores on Baropodometry and Stabilometry assessments, as well as the MiniBest Test. 2)Reduced lower limb muscle strength compared to the control group. 3) Decreased physical capacity as assessed by the 1-minute Sit-to-Stand Test (1MST) when compared to individuals without a history of COVID-19. 4) Possible associations between demographic characteristics (age, gender, and physical activity level) and the observed functional outcomes. We anticipate that these findings will contribute to a better understanding of the long-term effects of severe and critical COVID-19 on Balance, muscle strength, and physical capacity.

Effectiveness of Wii-Fit Combined with Conventional Exercises on the Functional Mobility and Balance of Children with Cerebral Palsy and Their Typically Growing Peers.

Nintendo Wii Fit is an accessible, affordable, and productive inclusion into rehabilitation programs for children with cerebral palsy (CP) as a physical activity intervention; however, to our knowledge, there are no comparative studies 8 investigating the effects on the functional mobility and balance of children with CP compared to typically growing (TG) children. We evaluated the effects of Nintendo Wii Fit video exercises on static and dynamic balance, functional capacity, and walking endurance in children with CP compared to their TG peers. Children with CP and their TG peers were trained with Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Board games and conventional exercises (40 minutes each) for 16 weeks, twice a week. Their static and dynamic balance, functional capacity, and walking endurance were evaluated at the beginning and end of the study. The improvement achieved within the groups in all parameters, as well as between the groups, was significant, except for the dynamic balance and walking endurance. Standing Nintendo Wii Fit exercises combined with conventional exercises can be included as axial exercises in the physiotherapy program for children with CP as an enjoyable physical activity. TG children may also benefit, increasing their functional mobility and walking endurance in a fun way.

The effect of BAPNE Body Percussion exercises on the balance and the executive functions of DCD children

This research aims to study the effect of Bodypercussion exercises on balance and executive functions of children with DCD. Thirty children with DCD between seven and nine years of age were selected from girls' elementary schools. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: experimental and control (15 subjects in each group). For eight weeks, the experimental group participated in group BAPNE neuromotor sessions. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and mixed ANOVA test with repeated measures and Bonferroni's post hoc test. The results showed that the result of BAPNE body percussion exercises on static balance (P=0.001), dynamic balance (P=0.001), sustained attention (P=0.001) and response inhibition (P=0.001) is significant and participants in the experimental group performed better at post-test (P=0.001) and follow-up (P=0.001) than the control group.

Immediate and acute effects of Kinesio taping on back muscle endurance, low back flexibility, and balance among sedentary individuals: A randomized controlled trial

IntroductionSedentary lifestyles is linked to a reduction in back muscle strength, endurance, and balance, consequently increasing the risk of experiencing low back pain. Kinesio taping has been shown to be effective in enhancing endurance, flexibility, and balance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Kinesio taping on measures of lumbar function in sedentary individuals. MethodForty-four sedentary young adults were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received Kinesio tape to the lumbar region while the control group received health education. The Schober's test, Single-leg stance test, Y Balance Test, and Biering-Sorensen test were performed at baseline and 30 min and 24 h after the taping intervention. ResultsThere was a statistically significant increase in static balance (single-leg stance test) in the intervention group compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.05). In the Y Balance Test and Biering-Sorensen test, there was no significant difference between the intervention group and control group, though there was a significant increase in both groups from baseline to 24 h after taping. Though low back flexibility (Schober's test) significantly decreased in the intervention group, there was no significant difference between the two groups. ConclusionKinesio taping can immediately improve static balance in people with sedentary behavior. The application of Kinesio tape had no impact on dynamic balance, low back flexibility, or low back muscle endurance.

Influence of Facial Profiles, Posture and Balance

Introduction: Participants in our study were evaluated according to photography in the sagittal plane to determine facial profile. The aim of our study is to evaluate the facial profile and identify the correlation with posture and balance in static and dynamic. Methods: This is a pilot study developed from December 2021. It took place in the Physiotherapy laboratory at Aleksandër Moisiu University, Durrës. With participants (N = 7), the tests applied in the study was the Romberg test, the Tandem test. Results: In our study dominates orthognathic profile 57.3%, then we have the Retrognatic profile. Regardless of the face profile patients have the lowest scoring on the dynamic test compared to the static test. The orthognathic profile is characterized by a better static and dynamic balance. Conclusions: We note conection between the facial profile and the balance of the participants. The orthognathic profile is considered the profile with the best balance in static and dynamic.
 
 Received: 15 February 2024 / Accepted: 20 March 2024 / Published: 23 March 2024

The effect of HVLA manipulation on static and dynamic postural parameters – a case study of a patient with a blocked atlanto-occipital transition

Objective. The study aimed to assess the effects of high velocity low amplitude (HVLA) manipulations on force distribution, pressures, and balance in individuals with atlanto-occipital blockage, focusing on post-treatment improvements. Research methods. Diagnostic tests (cervical spine compression, Spurling, de Kleyn) and pedobarography (using an EPS/R2 mat and BIOMECH STUDIO software) assessed functionality and postural parameters pre and post HVLA therapy. Results. Initial diagnosis showed significant disturbances in force distribution, balance, and gait. Post-HVLA therapy improvements included: 1. Balanced forefoot load during standing, with a decrease in heel load percentage. 2. Improved global body pressure distribution, with a notable decrease in left-side body pressure. 3. Enhanced anteroposterior and lateral body oscillation ranges, with a reduced ratio of extreme deflection distances to deflection surface and a decreased average speed of displacements. 4. Normalization of the right foot abduction angle, with no significant change in the left foot's visitation angle. 5. Slight improvements in foot vault index (AI) and average foot pressure during gait, with minimal changes in maximum foot pressure during gait. Conclusions. HVLA manipulation significantly improves static balance parameters but shows minimal improvement in gait parameters. This indicates a complex relationship between atlanto-occipital blockage and postural disorders, suggesting the need for further research to explore the association between postural defects and atlanto-occipital transition blockage, as well as the impact of these blockages on postural changes. Keywords atlanto-occipital blockage, HVLA manipulation, postural disorders, balance improvement, pedobarography

Time-course of balance training-related changes on static and dynamic balance performance in healthy children

ObjectiveIn healthy children, there is evidence of improvements in static and dynamic balance performance following balance training. However, the time-course of balance training-related changes is unknown. Thus, we determined the effects of balance training after one, three, and six weeks of exercise on measures of static and dynamic balance in healthy children (N = 44, 20 females, mean age: 9.6 ± 0.5 years, age range: 9–11 years).ResultsParticipants in the intervention group (2 × 25 min balance exercises per week) compared to those in the control group (2 × 25 min track and field exercises and soccer practice per week) significantly improved their static (i.e., by measuring stance time in the One-Legged Stance test) and dynamic (i.e., by counting step number in the 3-m Beam Walking Backward test) balance performance. Late effects (after 6 weeks) occurred most frequently followed by mid-term effects (after 3 weeks) and then early effects (after 1 week). These findings imply that balance training is effective to improve static and dynamic measures of balance in healthy children, whereby the effectiveness increases with increasing training period.Trial registrationCurrent Controlled Trials ISRCTN16518737 (retrospectively registered at 24th August, 2023).

The Effect of Mastery-Oriented Motivational Climate Intervention on Static and Dynamic Balance of Overweight Girl Children


 
 
 Introduction: The ability to control static and dynamic balance is an important physical activity which plays an important role in the implementation of activities, and as a result, in overweight management in children. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of mastery-oriented motivational climate (student-centered educational and sports approach) on static and dynamic balance of overweight girl children.
 Methods: A semi-experimental research strategy with applied purpose and a pre-test-post-test design with control groups were used. 60 girls between 10 and12 were selected by convenience sampling method and were placed in four equal groups of mastery overweight, control overweight, mastery normal weight and control normal weight. Stork and Star tests were used to evaluate static and dynamic balance, respectively. Results: In the pre-test and post-test, the normal weight group performed better regarding both static and dynamic balance, although the difference between the normal weight and overweight groups decreased in the post-test. The experimental overweight group performed better in both static and dynamic balance than the control overweight group. The mean difference between pre-test and post-test of the two experimental groups of overweight and normal weight regarding dynamic and static balance was similar to each other. This was while this mean difference in the overweight group and normal control weight was greater in dynamic balance than static balance (P<0/01).
 Conclusion: the mastery-oriented motivational climate approach has led to the improvement of both static and dynamic balance and can cause stability of posture and better performance of daily activities and various sports exercises.
 
 

Effect of Kinesio® taping on static and dynamic balance after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A randomized controlled trial

Effect of Kinesio® taping on static and dynamic balance after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A randomized controlled trial

Pes Planuslu Hastalarda Kişiye Özel Tasarlamış 3D Baskılı Tabanlıkların Fiziksel Aktivite Düzeyi, Denge ve Fiziksel Performans Üzerine Etkisi: Randomize, Plasebo Kontrollü, Çift-Kör Bir Çalışma

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of individually designed insoles on physical activity level, balance and functional performance in patients with pes planus.
 Methods: 38 participants were divided into 2 groups as 3D printed (n=20) and placebo(n=18). In the 3D printed group, medial longitudinal arch support, medial wedge of the foot, medial heel wedge and transverse arch support were given to the insoles according to the needs of the participants. The placebo group received placebo insoles. Range of motion, muscle strength, static and dynamic balance, physical and physical activity levels were measured at baseline, and eight weeks later (clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT05306886).
 Results: Muscle strengths of the plantar flexion and eversion increased after the use of insoles in the 3D printed and placebo groups (p0.05), but there were significant improvements in dynamic balance in both groups (p

Unveiling the Efficacy of Physiotherapy Strategies in Alleviating Low Back Pain: A Comprehensive Review of Interventions and Outcomes.

Low back pain (LBP) presents a significant burden globally, affecting individuals of all ages, but it is more common in adults aged 30-60 years oldand demographics including race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Physiotherapy interventions are commonly employed to manage LBP due to their non-invasive nature and potential for addressing underlying biomechanical dysfunctions. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the efficacy of various physiotherapy strategies in alleviating LBP, considering a range of interventions and their associated outcomes. Through a thorough examination of existing literature from January 2017 to October 2023, this review synthesises evidence on the effectiveness of interventions such as manual therapy, exercise therapy, electrotherapy modalities, and education-based approaches. The review also scrutinizes the comparative effectiveness of different physiotherapy modalities and their suitability for specific patient populations, considering factors such as chronicity, severity, and underlying pathology. By critically evaluating the evidence base, this review aims to provide insights into the most effective physiotherapy strategies for alleviating LBP, chronic low back pain (CLBP)and chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP) and guiding clinical practice towardevidence-based interventions. The Visual Analogue Scale and Numerical Pain Rating Scale for pain, Oswestry Disability Index andRoland-Morris Disability Questionnaire for disability, Modified-Modified Schober Test for measurement of lumbar flexion and extensionand static and dynamic balance for assessing postural stability and balance were among the measures used to foresee enhancements in pain, disability, balance, and LBP symptoms. Twenty-one studies that fulfilled the criteria for inclusion (aged 20 to 50 years and of both genders) were added to the review. Exercises for core stability, strengthening, orthosis (a medical device designed to support, align, stabilise, or correct musculoskeletal structures and functions), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, heat massage therapy, interferential current (a form of electrical stimulation used in physical therapy), Mulligan's mobilization (a manual therapy technique), low-level laser therapy, and McGill stabilization exercises (core exercises) were among the therapeutic strategies. The McKenzie method (back exercises), ultrasound, sensory-motor training, Swiss ball exercises, and other techniques reduced pain and enhanced strength, balance, and ease of daily activities. Every therapeutic approach has an impact on recovery rates ranging from minimal to maximal. Conventional physical therapy is less effective than most recent advancedtechniques like mobilisation and exercises. In summary, the integration of manual techniques, orthoses and alternative intervention strategies with conservative therapeutic approaches can effectively alleviate pain, enhance function and yield better overall outcomes. To get more information about the optimal dosage, therapeutic modalitiesand long-term effects of these treatments, more admirable research is required. This paper aims to expand the scientific discourse by exploring non-traditional physiotherapy interventions and assessing their efficacy in light of the rigorous standards set forth by the latest WHO guidelines.

Clinical effects of a novel deep learning-based rehabilitation application on cardiopulmonary function, dynamic and static balance, gait function, and activities of daily living in adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy undergo conventional physical therapy (CPT) to improve static and dynamic balance, activities of daily living and cardiopulmonary function. To overcome this problem, we developed an innovative deep learning-based rehabilitation application (DRA) to provide a motivational and chaffed platform for such individuals. DRA evaluates the patients' functional abilities and diagnosis an appropriate therapeutic intervention like CPT. We compared the effects of DRA and CPT on 6-minute walking test (6 MWT), Borg rating of perceived exertion scale, Berg balance scale, functional ambulation category, and modified Barthel index in adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. A convenience sample of 30 adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy was randomized into either the DRA or CPT group. DRA and CPT were administered to the participants, with each session lasting 30 minutes and apportioned thrice a week for a total of 4 weeks. Analysis of variance was performed and the level of significance was set at P < .05. The analysis indicated that DRA showed therapeutic effects on 6 MWT, Berg balance scale, and modified Barthel index compared to CPT. Our results provide evidence that DRA can improve cardiopulmonary function, balance, and activities of daily living more effectively than CPT in adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain affects balance in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.

During pregnancy, many changes in the musculoskeletal system and pregnancy-related disorders affect posture and postural stability. Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PPGP) is a common disorder in pregnancy; the cause remains unknown. The purpose of the present study was to determine if PPGP affects static postural stability and its relation to the stage of pregnancy. Sixty-three pregnant women between the ages of 18 and 45 and between the 12th and 38th weeks of gestation were included in the study. They were divided into four groups according on the trimester and the presence of PPGP. Static balance was assessed using a force plate on firm and compliant surfaces with eyes open and closed. Pregnant women with PPGP had significantly (p < 0.05) greater centre-of-pressure velocity and sway area compared to pregnant women without PPGP, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. In the second trimester, only two significant differences in COP parameters were observed between pregnant women with and without PPGP. Pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy had significantly (p < 0.05) greater centre-of-pressure velocity and larger postural sway area compared to pregnant women in the second trimester of pregnancy, regardless of PPGP. Pregnant women with PPGP had poorer static stability when compared to pregnant women without pain, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. The cause could be found in the poorer ability to stabilise the trunk and pelvis, poorer proprioception, and issues with automatic movement patterns.

Effect of foot orthoses on balance among individuals with flatfoot: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Individuals with flatfoot have impaired proprioception owing to ligament laxity and impaired tendons, which can result in poor balance. Foot orthoses (FOs) have been reported to stimulate plantar mechanical receptors and are used to manage foot overpronation in individuals with flatfoot. However, the results of the use of FOs to improve balance are inconsistent. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to identify and investigate the effects of FOs on balance in individuals with flatfoot. Electronic databases were searched for articles published before March 2023. Peer-reviewed journal studies that included adult participants with flexible flatfoot and reported the effects of FOs on balance were included and classified based on the study design: randomized control trials (RCT) and non-RCTs. Four RCT studies were retained, and their methodological quality was assessed (mean, 63.2%; range 47.3%-73.1%: high), as were three non-RCT studies (mean, 54.1%; range, 42.1%-68.4%: high). Meta-analysis was performed by calculating the effect size using the standardized mean differences between the control and FO conditions. Transverse-arch insoles immediately improved static balance after use. However, no immediate significant effect was found for medial archsupport FOs, cuboid-posting FOs, or University of California Berkeley Laboratory FOs during the study period (2-5 weeks) when compared with the controls. The transverse-arch insole is the most effective FO feature for improving static balance. However, the high heterogeneity between study protocols contributes to the lack of evidence for the effects of FO on balance in people with flatfoot.

Effect of Corrective Exercise on Static Balance, Food Consumption, and Body Composition in the Early Period After Bariatric Surgery.

To determine the impact of corrective exercise program applied during the period of rapid weight loss following bariatric surgery on static balance, dietary intake, and body composition. Participants who had undergone Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) surgery were divided into as Corrective Exercise Group (CEG), and Control Group (CG). CEG underwent a 12-week supervised corrective exercise program. Body composition and static balance of all participants were assessed before and after the study. Their physical activity levels and dietary intake were also evaluated. Following of the corrective exercise program, both groups exhibited significant reductions in body weight, BMI, fat mass, fat percentage, muscle mass, waist circumference-to-height ratio, and visceral adiposity values (p < 0.05). Additionally, the CEG showed increase in lean body mass percentage (p < 0.001). In measurements related to static balance, values for eyes-closed perimeter (p = 0.015), eyes-closed (p = 0.006), eyes-open (p = 0.028) ellipses area, average F-B speed, and eyes-open center of pressure in the X-axis (C.O.P.X.) sway distance significantly decreased in both groups (p = 0.025). However, the difference in eyes-open C.O.P.X. sway distance was found to be higher in the CG (mean difference = 8.67; p = 0.034). Postoperatively, there were significant decreases in energy, protein, fat, CHO (carbohydrate), CHO percentage, fiber, and iron values, while protein percentage (p < 0.001), vitamin D (p = 0.003), and B12 (p < 0.001) values increased. It has been observed that the corrective exercise program implemented in the early postoperative period following SG surgery had a positive impact on eyes-open static balance.

Investigation of the Effectiveness of the Robotic ReStore Soft Exoskeleton in the Development of Early Mobilization, Walking, and Coordination of Stroke Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Medical robotics nowadays can prevent, treat, or alleviate numerous severe conditions, including the dire consequences of stroke. Our objective was to determine the effect of employing a robotic soft exoskeleton in therapy on the development of the early mobilization, gait, and coordination in stroke patients. The ReStore™ Soft Exo-Suit, a wearable exosuit developed by a leading company with exoskeleton technology, was utilized. It is a powered, lightweight device intended for use in stroke rehabilitation for people with lower limb disability. We performed a randomized clinical intervention, using a before–after trial design in a university hospital setting. A total of 48 patients with a history of stroke were included, of whom 39 were randomized and 30 completed the study. Interventions: Barthel Index and modified Rankin scale (mRS) patients were randomly assigned to a non-physical intervention control (n = 9 of 39 completed, 30 withdrew before baseline testing), or to a high-intensity agility program (15 sessions, 5 weeks, n = 30 completed). The main focus of assessment was on the Modified Rankin Scale. Additionally, we evaluated secondary factors including daily life functionality, five dimensions of health-related quality of life, the Beck depression inventory, the 6 min walk test (6MWT), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and static balance (center of pressure). The Robot-Assisted Gait Therapy (ROB/RAGT) program led to significant improvements across various measures, including a 37% improvement in Barthel Index scores, a 56% increase in 10 m walking speed, and a 68% improvement in 6 min walking distance, as well as notable enhancements in balance and stability. Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated significant gains in all these aspects compared to the control group. In conclusion, the use of robotic therapy can be beneficial in stroke rehabilitation. These devices support the restoration and improvement of movement in various ways and contribute to restoring balance and stability.

The effects of improvement in upper extremity function on gait and balance in children with upper extremity affected

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the effects of functional improvement in the upper extremity on gait and balance in children with upper extremity affected. Research questionWhat are the effects of functional improvement in the upper extremity on gait and balance in children with upper extremity affected? MethodsEighteen children with a diagnosis of rheumatologic diseases and 15 healthy children were evaluated with Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Assessment, Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, Abilhand Rheumatoid Arthritis Scale, 10-meter walk test and Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire. For static balance assessment, the Biodex Balance was used. Ground reaction forces (peak forces (heel strike and push-off) and minimum force (loading response), single-limb support duration, Center-of-Force displacement and walking speed were evaluated with the Sensor Medica. Arm swing was evaluated with the Kinovea 2D motion analysis. ResultsBefore treatment, single-limb support duration and push-off force was higher and center-of-force displacement was lower on affected side compared to unaffected side in rheumatologic group. After the 6-week rehabilitation program, upper extremity function, quality of life and functional gait score improved. Single-limb support duration decreased on affected side and increased on unaffected side. On affected side, push-off force decreased. The arm swing parameters were similar before and after treatment. SignificanceImproving upper extremity function can help with gait balance by decreasing the difference in walking and balance parameters between the affected and unaffected sides and providing for more symmetrical weight transfer.