Effect of Concentric Isokinetic Knee Strength Training on Gait, Balance and Quality of Life in Chronic Stroke Patients

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of concentric isokinetic knee strength training on gait, balance and health related quality of life in chronic stroke patients. METHOD: Fifteen patients with chronic stroke participated in this study. All subjects were community ambulators and trained using Biodex System 3 isokinetic dynamometer three times a week for 6 weeks. The training program consisted of concentric isokinetic strengthening of both knee extensors and flexors. Peak torque of knee extensors and flexors, walking performance (temporospatial parameter of gait and stair climbing time), balance (overall balance index, anterior/ posterior index and medial/lateral index) and health-related quality of life measure (36-item short form health survey, SF-36) were evaluated before and after training period. RESULTS: Muscle strength improved significantly after training. Walking speed, stride length and stair climbing time improved significantly after training. Balance indices and SF-36 score also improved significantly after training. CONCLUSION: Gain in muscle strength appeared to be transferred to functional improvement. Therefore, isokinetic resistance training program would be one of the effective rehabilitation programs for chronic stroke survivors. Further investigations are required for long-term effect and development of strength-specific resistance training program.