Training on a three-dimensional motion platform can improve the walking and ability in the activities of daily living of hemiplegic stroke survivors / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To explore the ability of training on a three-dimensional motion platform to improve the walking ability and skill in the activities of daily living of hemiplegic stroke survivors.Methods:A total of 70 stroke survivors with hemiplegia were randomly divided into a control group ( n=35) and an intervention group ( n=35). In addition to routine rehabilitation, the control group received 40 minutes of ground balance training, while the intervention group received 40 minutes of training on a three-dimensional motion platform 6 times a week for 4 weeks. Before and after the intervention, step length, speed and frequency were evaluated in both groups using the Gait Watch 3D gait analysis system. Walking ability and ability in the activities of daily living were assessed using the de Morton mobility index (DEMMI) and the modified Barthel index (MBI). Results:Before the treatment, there was no significant difference in average step length, speed or frequency between the two groups. The average standing phase percentage on the affected side, percentage of double support period, DEMMI score, and MBI score also were not significantly different. After the treatment those indicators had improved significantly in both groups. The intervention group′s averages were then all significantly better than those of the control group.Conclusions:Three-dimensional motion platform training can improve the walking ability and skill in the activities of daily living of hemiplegic stroke survivors.