Balance outcomes after additional sit-to-stand training in subjects with stroke: a randomized controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effectiveness of sit-to-stand training in individuals with stroke.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial.


METHODS
Rehabilitation medical centre.


METHODS
Thirty-two subjects with stroke were randomly assigned to the control and experimental groups (n = 16 for each group).


METHODS
Subjects in both groups received 30 minutes of general physical therapy three times a week for four weeks. Subjects in the experimental group received additional sit-to-stand training for 15 minutes each time. The total amount of therapy received was 45 minutes in the experimental group and 30 minutes in the control group each time.


METHODS
The weight-bearing distribution during quiet standing, the directional control and maximal excursion during limits of stability test, the scores of Berg Balance Scale and the extensor muscle strength of lower extremity were assessed before and after completing the 12 treatment sessions.


RESULTS
Our data showed significant improvements in directional control anteriorly in the experimental group (from 47.4 (36.6)% to 62.6 (26.1)%) compared with the control group (from 68.7 (16.7)% to 62.8 (29.7)%) (P = 0.028). A significant improvement in affected hip extensor strength was noted in the experimental group (from 19.3 (9.8)% to 22.6 (8.4)%) compared with the control group (from 24.4 (9.0)% to 22.8 (7.2)%) (P = 0.006). Significant improvements were noted only in the experimental group after treatment, including bilateral extensors, except the affected plantar flexors, the weight distribution in standing, the maximal excursion (P(anterior) = 0.049; P(affected) = 0.023) and the directional control (P(affected) = 0.013; P(non-affected) = 0.025).


CONCLUSIONS
Additional sit-to-stand training is encouraged due to effects on dynamic balance and extensor muscles strength in subjects with stroke.
Tung
Fu-Ling
FL
Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Cheng Hsin Rehabilitation Medical Center, Shih-Pai, Taipei, Taiwan.
Yang
Yea-Ru
YR
Lee
Chao-Chung
CC
Wang
Ray-Yau
RY
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D053580:Muscle Strength; D004856:Postural Balance; D020127:Recovery of Function; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D020521:Stroke / Q000503:physiopathology; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation