Visual Dependence and Multisensory Balance Rehabilitation After Stroke

Post-Stroke Visual Dependence and Early Intervention of Multisensory Balance Rehabilitation

This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the prevalence of post-stroke visual dependence, and the effects of visual dependence on balance and gait. It also determines whether visual dependence could differentiate stroke patients with a history of falls from without.

Stroke participants will be recruited to measure the level of visual dependence, muscle strength, neurological recovery, balance ability, vertigo symptom, gait pattern and activities of daily living. This will calculate the prevalence of post-stroke visual dependence, and investigate the negative impact of visual dependence on balance and walking functions. This also determines whether the value of visual dependence could differentiate stroke patients with a history of falls from without a history of falls.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 1) first stroke with 20-80 years of age
• 2) the time since onset is more than 6 months
• 3) can walk independently at least 10 meters without any walking devices and orthosis
• 4) normal cognitive function with scoring more than 24 on the Mini Mental State Examination scale
• 5) can understand and follow commands
• 6) can give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• 1) other neurological disorders which could affect balance assessment
• 2) cerebellar stroke
• 3) diagnosis with central or peripheral vestibular diseases.