Effects of perceptual learning exercises on standing balance using a hardness discrimination task in hemiplegic patients following stroke: a randomized controlled pilot trial.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effect of perceptual learning exercises for hardness discrimination by the soles on standing balance in stroke patients with hemiplegia.


METHODS
Twenty-eight subjects were randomly assigned to an experimental or a control group and participated in a rehabilitation programme.


METHODS
The experimental group received perceptual learning exercises on hardness discrimination using three different levels of hardness of a rubber sponge for 10 days.


METHODS
Length, enveloped area and rectangular area of the parameter of postural sway were measured by a stabilometer on entry into the study and after 10 days.


RESULTS
Twenty-six subjects completed the study. Data indicate that more parameters indicating postural sway were significantly decreased in the experimental group than in the control group. Also, there was a significant difference between the groups in change scores (pre-exercise minus post-exercise) of length and enveloped area.


CONCLUSIONS
The plantar perception exercise used as a method in this study is considered to be effective as a supplemental exercise for standing balance. The possibility of clinical application using the hardness discrimination task with rubber as a balance exercise is therefore suggested.
Morioka
Shu
S
Department of Physical Therapy, Kochi School of Allied Health and Medical Professions, Nagahama, Kochi, Japan. morioka@kochi-iryogakuin.com
Yagi
Fumio
F
D000368:Aged; D004193:Discrimination Learning; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006429:Hemiplegia / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D004856:Postural Balance; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications