The Effect of Motor Learning on Balance, Mobility and Performance of Activities of Daily Living Among Post-Stroke Patients

The Effect of Motor Re-Learning Program on Balance, Mobility and Performance of Activities of Daily Living Among Post-Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The primary objective of this study is to assess - through a randomized controlled trial - the effectiveness and long-term improvement of motor relearning program on balance, mobility and performance of activities of daily living among post-stroke patients. In this two-armed randomized controlled clinical trial, a total of 66 sub-acute stroke patients who meet the trial criteria will be recruited. The patients will randomly receive task-specific training based on a motor relearning program (MRP) or a conventional physical therapy program (CPT). Twenty-four rehabilitation sessions will be conducted for eight weeks. Both interventions will be followed by analysis of patients' balance, gait and performance of activates of daily living at two time period; post-intervention and follow-up after 3-months, using clinical outcome measures and instrumental analysis of balance and gait.

Inclusion Criteria:

• First-ever subacute (1-6 months) stroke patients;
• Able to give informed consent;
• Patients with hemiparesis: muscle power of 2-4 on Medical Research Council-MRC Muscle Scale in the affected upper and lower limbs;
• Able to stand independently for at least one minute;
• Can ambulate 25 feet/10 meter (with or without assistive device).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Post-stroke patients with major cognitive deficits (Montreal Cognitive Assessment- MoCA score ≥ 20) and/or communication impairments that don't allow patients to follow directions (i.e., deafness, aphasia, etc.);
• Patients who are receiving other related therapy through the study, which may affect efficacy of this study;
• Any medical contraindications to start rehabilitation;
• History of disability related to neurological deficits other than stroke.