BACKGROUND: Trunk-activating exercises for balance are important because trunk weakness is relevant to the functional performance of individuals with stroke. This study aimed to explore the effects of three-dimensional balance training using visual feedback on balance and walking ability in subacute stroke patients. METHODS: Twenty-four participants with subacute stroke were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. Each group underwent twenty sessions (30 min/day, 5 days/week for 4 weeks). Patients were assessed using the Berg balance scale, gait parameters (gait speed, cadence, step length, and double-limb support period) using GAITRite, and activity-specific balance confidence score, before and after the intervention. RESULTS: The three-dimensional balance training using visual feedback exhibited greater changes in the Berg balance scale, gait speed, cadence, step length, double-limb support period, and activity-specific balance confidence compared with the control group. Statistical analyses showed significant differences in Berg balance scale (p = 0.012; 95% CI 2.585 to 6.415), gait speed (p = 0.001; 95% CI 0.079 to 0.155), cadence (p = 0.001; 95% CI 1.622 to 4.392), step length (p = 0.003; 95% CI 1.864 to 3.908), double-limb support period (p = 0.003; 95% CI -3.259 to -0.761) and activity-specific confidence (p = 0.008; 95% CI 6.964 to 14.036) between groups. CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional balance training using visual feedback may be more effective than conventional training in improving balance, walking ability, and activity-specific balance confidence in patients with subacute stroke.
Copyright by WB Saunders Company.

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