PURPOSE: To clarify the effects of diagonally aligned sitting training using a tilted surface on sitting balance for patients with low sitting performance in the early phase after stroke. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was an assessor-blinded randomised controlled trial. The experimental group used a surface tilted 10 degree backward and down toward the most affected side; the control group trained on a horizontal surface. Both groups were asked to move their trunk diagonally forward toward the least affected side. Participants performed the activity 40 times/session for seven sessions over 8 days. Sitting performances were assessed using the function in sitting test (FIST), subjective postural vertical (SPV) on the diagonal plane, and trunk impairment scale (TIS). RESULTS: Thirty-three stroke patients were randomly allocated into two groups. Treatment effects differed significantly: mean differences between groups for FIST (total score, static, dynamic, scooting, and reactive) were 8.96, 2.35, 3.01, 1.27, and 1.72 points, for the mean SPV value was 1.82 degree, and for the TIS (total score and static) were 1.87 and 1.58 points, respectively. These results were more favourable in the experimental group. CONCLUSIONS: Diagonally aligned sitting training on a tilted surface improves sitting balance and modulates the SPV compared with a horizontal surface.

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