[Purpose] This study aimed to compare the effects of horizontal-vibration with those of
vertical-vibration training on the balance and gait of patients with stroke. [Subjects and
Methods] A sample population of 20 subjects was randomly divided into 2 groups: the
horizontal-vibration group and the vertical-vibration group. We evaluated the Berg Balance
Scale (BBS) score, Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) test results, and 10-meter Walk Test (10MWT)
results at 3 times points: before the training, 3 weeks after the training, and 6 weeks
after the training. [Results] The BBS score, TUG test result, and 10MWT result differed
significantly among the subjects in the vertical-vibration group. However, only the BBS
score differed significantly among the subjects in the horizontal-vibration group.
[Conclusion] The vibration training used in this study heightened the activity of the
trunk muscles and improved balance ability of the patients. In particular, we recommend
the vertical-vibration training because dynamic movements such as gait improved the
balance ability through activation of the trunk stabilizer muscles.
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