The effect of exercise of the affected foot in stroke patients--a randomized controlled pilot trial.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effect of treatment with a portable device called Stimulo on range of motion, muscle strength and spasticity in the ankle joint and its effect on walking ability, balance, activities of daily living (ADL) and health-related quality of life in stroke patients.


METHODS
A randomized controlled pilot study.


METHODS
A research centre.


METHODS
Ambulatory or partly ambulatory chronic stroke patients with remaining spasticity and/or decreased range of motion in the hemiparetic leg/ankle.


METHODS
Standardized and individualized programme including active and passive range of motion of the ankle with a portable device (Stimulo), performed three times a week for 30 min, over a six-week period.


METHODS
Range of motion, muscle strength, spasticity, gait variables, balance, ADL and health-related quality of life.


RESULTS
Eighteen subjects were included in the study with a mean age of 75 years. The compliance rate was 94-99%. There were no significant differences between the groups.


CONCLUSIONS
The study showed no significant effect of an ankle-exercise intervention programme with Stimulo. Further studies with a larger sample size are of importance before any further conclusions can be drawn.
Rydwik
Elisabeth
E
Nutrition and Pharmacotherapy Unit, Research and Development Unit for the Elderly North West, Karolinska Institute, Jakobsbergs Hospital, Birgittavägen 4, 177 31 Järfälla, Sweden. elisabeth.rydwik@sll.se
Eliasson
Sara
S
Akner
Gunnar
G
D000368:Aged; D000843:Ankle Joint; D004867:Equipment Design; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation