Effect of Spiral Elastic Band on Gait Function in Patients with Chronic Stroke

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study examined the effects of a spiral elastic band for the walking function on patients with chronic stroke. METHODS: Twenty one chronic stroke patients were recruited and divided randomly into the experimental group and control group. Both groups performed mat exercises and gait training three times a week for four weeks, and gait training was applied to the experimental group with additional spinal elastic bands. RESULTS: The results of this research were as follows. The 10MWT measurements showed that the velocities within and between the groups decreased significantly, and the results of TUG showed significant decreases in velocities after the interventions in both the control group and experimental group. On the other hand, there were no significant differences between the control and experimental group. The FRT measurements showed significantly increased stride lengths within and between the groups. The measurements of the stride length, stride velocity, cadence, and step length showed significant improvement within the groups, but there was no significant difference between the groups. The measurement of stance showed that the non-paralytic patients had a significant increase in the rates within the groups and a significant difference was observed between the groups. CONCLUSION: Spiral elastic bands are an effective intervention method for rehabilitation programs to enhance the walking function in the clinical field. A treatment needs to be developed for patients with walking problems due to various disorders by investigating the action mechanism of spiral elastic bands.