Post-stroke balance training: Role of force platform with visual feedback technique

ObjectiveTo evaluate the role of balance training on Force Platform with Visual Feedback technique (FPVF) in improving balance and functional outcome in chronic stroke survivors.DesignProspective, repeated measure study.SettingsNeurological rehabilitation department of a tertiary research center.ParticipantsFirst episode of supra-tentorial stroke with more than 3 months duration, ability to follow 3 step commands, and impaired balance and gait with ability to walk independently or with one person support (Functional Ambulation Category II–IV).InterventionsTraining on “Balance Master” for 20 sessions (20 min/day, 5 days/week for 4 weeks).Outcome measuresBalance on Berg Balance Scale, Balance Index and Limits of Stability scores, walking ability on over ground walking speed, and functional ability on Barthel Index. Evaluation was done pre- and post-training and at 3 months follow-up. Statistical analysis was done by Paired t test on SPSS 13.0.ResultsForty five patients (M:W: 36:9, age range: 22–65 years, mean post-stroke duration of 16.51 ±15.14 months) were included. Forty (89.9%) subjects completed training and all primary and secondary outcome measures showed statistically significant improvement (p < 0.000) at the end of training. Thirty-four (75.6%) subjects were followed up and statistically significant improvement (p < 0.000) was maintained for all outcome measures.ConclusionBalance training by FPVF technique significantly improves balance and functional outcome even in chronic phase after stroke. Large scale, controlled studies are recommended.