The Effect of Dual-Task Training on Balance and Cognition in Patients With Subacute Post-Stroke

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of dual-task training on the recovery of balance ability and cognitive function in patients with subacute stroke.MethodsTwenty patients (12 males and eight females; average age, 59.70 years) with subacute stroke were enrolled in this study. All participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups, the dual-task group (n=10) or the control group (n=10). The dual task was simultaneous balance and cognitive training using the BioRescue. All patients were evaluated with posturographic parameters and the Berg Balance Scale for balance ability, a computerized neuropsychological test and the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination for cognitive function, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for motor function, and the Korean-Modified Barthel Index for activities of daily living (ADL) function before and after 4 weeks of rehabilitation.ResultsThe dual-task group showed significant improvements in the pressure of the weight distribution index (WDI), surface area, and length of the stability index during the eyes-open condition; surface area of the limit of stability (LOS) on the hemiparetic and intact sides, and the auditory continuous performance test and backward visual span test after rehabilitation. Although no significant difference was observed for the changes in balance ability or cognitive, motor, and ADL functions between the groups, changes in the WDI pressure during the eyes-open condition and in the area ratio of LOS (hemiparetic/intact) showed a tendency to improve in the dual-task group.ConclusionOur findings suggest that dual-task training could be as effective as conventional balance training for improving balance and cognition in subacute post-stroke patients.

Effects of dual tasks and dual-task training on postural stability: a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Data from the included studies are summarized in Table 1. Of the 42 studies, three were RCTs,34–36 and 39 were CCTs. Eight studies evaluated the effects of dual-task training on postural stability 34–36,48,61–64.…”

“…Of the 42 studies, three were RCTs,34–36 and 39 were CCTs. Eight studies evaluated the effects of dual-task training on postural stability 34–36,48,61–64. Eight studies evaluated the effects of dual tasks on participants suffering from neurological diseases, such as degenerative cerebellar disorder, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis 21,65,66.…”

“…Four studies incorporated only female participants,35,79,85,86 and two studies incorporated only male participants 34,89. Three studies did not specify the gender of the included participants 48,61,80.…”

“…Furthermore, studies have extensively mentioned the beneficial effects of motor,32,33 dual-task training,34–36 for enhancing cognitive and motor performance even in fall-prone population groups. Another important determinant that is commonly utilized to enhance stability and cognitive performance is physical exercise 32,33,37.…”

Correlation of Balance Ability and Physical Conditions

“…Literature in [6] indicated that static balance test standing for 10 seconds with posture stability using force plate had the retest reliability, and the offset trajectories of center of pressure (COP) could be used to effectively detect and quantify postural control parameters, and then to identify static balance performance. The balance test equipment is required to connect laptop to display COP of left or right foot [7], [8]. In the meantime, students' physical conditions including height, weight, leg length and footprint area are recorded in Excel.…”