Evaluation of a home-based exercise and training programme to improve sit-to-stand in patients with chronic stroke.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of a task-specific home-based exercise protocol for improving sit-to-stand (STS), with additional exercises to strengthen lower limb extensor muscles in patients with chronic stroke.


METHODS
A pre-test, post-test design was used.


METHODS
Six subjects at least one year post stroke and discharged from all rehabilitation services for at least six months participated in the study.


METHODS
Functional performance of sit-to-stand was evaluated using the Standing Up item of the Motor Assessment Scale (MAS). Peak vertical ground reaction force, walking speed over 10 m and grip strength were also measured.


RESULTS
Group MAS score was significantly higher at post-test than at pre-test with two subjects reaching the highest point on the scale and three subjects reaching the second highest point. Time-to-peak vertical ground reaction force occurred significantly closer to thighs-off, the critical time when the body mass is propelled into standing. Walking speed increased significantly over 10 m from a mean of 0.86 m/s to 1.10 m/s. Grip strength, which was not trained, did not change.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that a home-based task-specific exercise and training protocol for STS can induce improved performance of STS and increase walking speed more than one year after stroke.
Monger
Claire
C
Westminster Private Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
Carr
Janet H
JH
Fowler
Virginia
V
D000368:Aged; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006699:Home Care Services; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000503:physiopathology; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation