RESUMO
Objective To observe the effect of body-weight supported treadmill training (BWSTT) on the lower limb motor function of elderly hemiplegia patients with acute cerebral infarction using semi-quantitative analysis of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) through single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Methods Seven patients with cerebral infarction were given comprehensive rehabilitation therapy for 10 weeks in three stages: a baseline period of 2 weeks ( conventional rehabilitation therapy), an intervention period of 6 weeks ( conventional rehabilitation therapy plus BWSTT) and a withdrawal period of 2 weeks (conventional rehabilitation therapy). During the intervention period the exercise duration increased gradually from 15 to 30 minutes, once a day, 5 times a week,for 6 consecutive weeks. Dynamic changes in rCBF in the cortex were observed with SPECT before and after treat ment. Results During the baseline period there was no significant change in average MWS (maximum walking speed) or BBS ( Berg balance scale) scores. During the intervention period both scores improved significantly. During the withdrawal period there were some changes in MWS and BBS scores, but they were not significant. There was a significant change in average rCBF in the cortex after treatment compared with before. Conclusions BWSTT is effective for improving the walking speed and balance of elderly patients with acute cerebral infarction. There is a positive correlation between the recovery of lower limb motor function and changes in rCBF in the cortex.