The effect of independent practice of motor tasks by stroke patients: a pilot randomized controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effect of independent practice of sitting balance as an addition to standard physiotherapy treatment for patients with stroke.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial, using blocked randomization procedure with 2:1 ratio.


METHODS
Inpatients with diagnosis of stroke, having achieved one minute of independent sitting balance but not yet achieved 10 independent steps, and with no known previous disabilities, pathology or neurological deficit affecting mobility prior to stroke.


METHODS
A four-week regime of independent practice aimed at improving aspects of balance, as an addition to standard physiotherapy treatment based on the Bobath Approach.


METHODS
Proportion of patients achieving 'normal' symmetry of weight distribution during sitting, standing, rising to stand, sitting down, and reaching.


RESULTS
Nineteen subjects were randomized to the control group; nine to the intervention group. There were no clinically significant differences in measured outcome between the groups.


CONCLUSIONS
The regime of independent practice had no measured beneficial effect on the balance ability of patients with recently acquired stroke.
Pollock
Alexandra S
AS
Department of Physiotherapy, Queen Margaret University College, Edinburgh, UK. pollock@middleton4.freeserve.co.uk
Durward
Brian R
BR
Rowe
Philip J
PJ
Paul
John P
JP
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009048:Motor Skills / Q000502:physiology*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000379:methods*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods*; D020521:Stroke / Q000503:physiopathology*; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome