Sensorimotor Integration Exercises on Post-stroke Balance and Fall Efficacy

Effects of Sensorimotor Integration Exercises on Balance and Fall Efficacy in Sub-acute Stroke

To study the effect of sensorimotor integration exercises on balance and fall efficacy in sub-acute stroke by performing 18 balance training exercises with three progressive steps.

Balance impairment after stroke is significantly correlated with fall risk. To improve balance and reduce fall efficacy, the participants in the study group will be trained by six weeks three progressive steps of sensorimotor integration exercises. Each exercise step will take 30 minutes of a practice session, three sessions per week. Conventional physiotherapy (passive and active exercises and lower extremities strengthening exercises) will be given to the control group. The changes in balance performance and fall efficacy will be measured and compared within and between groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• First episode of sub-acute stroke (from 1 to 26 weeks) referred from physicians
• Both sexes
• Age above 20
• Good cognition (Mini Mental State Examination Scale ≥24)
• Moderate and moderately severe disability (Modified Rankin Scale- 3 and 4)
• Impaired balance (BBS <41)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recurrent stroke
• Associated with other neurological conditions (such as Parkinson's disease, Epilepsy, meningitis)
• Deficits of somatic sensation involving the paretic limb (Fugl-Meyer Assessment - sesation< 1)
• Lower extremity weight bearing pain (Fugl-Meyer Assessment- pain <1)
• Low back pain (VAS ≥ 3)
• Severe visual deficits which cannot be corrected by lens or glasses
• Symptomatic vestibular disorders (Paroxysmal postural vertigo)
• Associated serious cardiac disorder