The Efficiency of Functional Electrical Stimulation and Balance-Weighted Rehabilitation Therapy in Stroke Patients with Foot-Drop: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of FES and balance-weighted rehabilitation therapy in addition to conventional rehabilitation in stroke patients with foot-drop on motor function, ambulation, posture, balance, physical disability, gait quality and activities of daily living. Material and Methods: This study included 35 stroke patients with foot-drop. The patients were evaluated in respect of motor function, activities of daily living posture, balance and risk of falling. Brunnstrom stages of motor recovery was administered to assess motor function. The functional disability was assessed by Functional Independence Measure. Functional Ambulation Category was used to assess the patients' gait performance. Berg Balance Scale was used in functional balance and risk of falling. Posture was assessed using the Trunk Control Test. Video-assisted visual gait analysis (VGA) over a distance of 10 m was also applied to patients. The two gait phases of swing and stance were analysed. Walking speed (m/sn) and walking rhythm (step/min) were determined. All patients received conventional rehabilitation, FES and balance-weighted rehabilitation therapy 5 days a week for 4 weeks. The evaluation parameters were repeated in weeks 2 and 4, and these parameters were compared. Results: From the baseline values to the end of week 4, a significant improvement was determined in respect of functional disability, balance, upper and lower extremity functions, walking speed and rhythm. Conclusion: FES and balance-weighted rehabilitation therapy in addition to conventional rehabilitation is an effective treatment method for hemiplegic foot rehabilitation as it improves functional ambulation and increases the level of independence in daily living activities.

Proprioceptive Exercises in Hemiplegia Improve Balance and Spatiotemporal Parameters

“…The second most common cause of death and disability worldwide is hemiplegia [16]. Many treatment modalities are used for hemi- plegia rehabilitation [17][18][19]. But the most effective treatment method is unclear.…”