title: The effect of enhanced trunk control on balance and falls through bilateral upper extremity exercises among chronic stroke patients in a standing position.
abstract: [Purpose] This study examined the effects of bilateral upper extremity exercises on trunk control, balance, and risk of falls in stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 30 study subjects were selected and randomly divided into experimental and control groups containing 15 subjects each, who received bilateral upper extremity activities and conventional rehabilitation treatment, respectively. [Results] There were statistically significant differences between groups in all sub-items and total trunk impairment and Berg Balance scale scores. Significant differences between groups were also observed in all sub-items of the trunk impairment scale, except for static sitting balance. [Conclusion] Bilateral upper extremity exercises are effective for trunk control and balance as well as for fall prevention.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Science, Daegu University, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Ji Won
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Shin
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, Daegu Fatima Hospital, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Kyoung
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Don Kim
keywords: Balance; Bilateral upper extremity exercises; Stroke