Eccentric Contraction-based Resistance Exercise for Chronic Stroke Patients

Effect of Eccentric Contraction-based Resistance Exercise on Functional Recovery in Chronic Stroke Patients

The purpose of this study is to develop an evidence-based rehabilitation treatment method suitable for recovery and improvement of physical function in chronic stroke patients using an eccentric overload flywheel device. Participants are disabled with chronic stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic cerebral hemorrhage) over 50 years of age, who can communicate with a Korean simple mental state test (MMSE-K) of 24 points or higher, and whose functional gait score is 3-5 points. The investigators will enroll 40 participants and randomly assign them to either the control (Con, n=20) or the exercise (Ex, n=20) group. The investigators will verify the effectiveness of the exercise program through the evaluation of changes in muscle and physical function before and after intervention in both groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with disabilities 50 years of age or older who have been diagnosed with a stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic cerebral hemorrhage) for at least one year
• Patients can communicate with a Korean simple mental state test (MMSE-K) of 24 points or higher
• Patients have a functional ambulation category (FAC) score of 3 to 5

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with brain lesions and quadriplegia excluding stroke
• Patients with uncontrolled hypertension with limited exercise intervention
• Patients diagnosed with angina
• Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF)
• Patients with upper/lower extremity fracture within 6 months