Frenkel's Exercises for Sub-Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients

Regaining Balance and Quality of Life: The Impact of Frenkel's Exercises in Patients With Sub-Acute Ischemic Stroke-A Randomized Controlled Trial

This single-blinded, randomized controlled was aimed to compare the efficacy of Frenkel's and Conventional Balance Exercises in improving balance and quality of life in patients with subacute ischemic stroke. The participants of Group A received 'Frenkel's Exercises'. In contrast, Group B participants received 'Conventional Balance Exercise' interventions three days/week for 30-60 minutes for four weeks. The data was collected pre and post-treatment on the Berg Balance Scale and Stroke Specific-Quality of Life.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients aged between 35 to 75 years.
2. First-ever ischemic stroke and hemiparesis within 7 to 30 days of onset.
3. Reduced proprioception of the lower limb with a score of ≤12 on the NSA (kinesthetic and tactile sensation test),
4. Able to comprehend tasks and follow directions with a score of ≥21 points on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).
5. Able to independently perform standing motions for ≥1 minute.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with lower limb fractures within 6 months.
2. Severe pain.
3. Limited range of motion.
4. Cerebellar ataxia.
5. Medically unstable.