The Effectiveness of Two Different Types of Shoulder Slings in Stroke

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Two Different Types of Slings in Shoulder Subluxation

The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of shoulder slings on pain, motor function, daily life and balance in acute hemiplegic patients and to investigate whether different types of slings are superior to each other.

Thirty-two patients with hemiplegic shoulder subluxation due to acute stroke were divided into two groups: shoulder supported slings and forearm supported slings. Hemiplegia rehabilitation passive and active-assistive range of motion, stretching, and neurophysiologic exercises were performed for all patients per day for 8 weeks.Pain assessment was performed with Visual Analog Scale, sensorimotor evaluation was performed with Fugl Meyer Assessment of Motor Function,daily life activities were assessed with Barthel Index, and balance was evaluated with Berg Balance Scale.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Acute patients who were independent and ambulatory prior to stroke and had their first stroke attack (<3 months)
• Mini-mental Status Test (MMST) score ≥ 24,
• Developing hemiplegia after stroke, standing independently for at least 2 minutes,
• Lower limb being in stage 4-5 according to the Brunnstrom Approach (for ambulation and standard balance)
• Upper limb being in stage 1-2 according to the Brunnstrom Approach
• Spasticity 0-1+ according to Modified Ashworth scale

Exclusion Criteria:

• Has a neurological history other than the diagnosis of hemiplegia (Parkinson's etc.)
• Having used shoulder slings and orthosis.
• Having a disease that can affect balance (cranial, etc.)