Article

This randomized controlled trial compared the outcomes of physiotherapy
intervention on selected indices of recovery for stroke survivors treated at a
primary health centre group (PHCG) with those treated in their respective places
of domicile group (DG). METHODS: Participants were 52 individuals comprising 24
males and 28 females who had suffered a stroke and were recently discharged from
two inpatient health facilities in Ibadan, Nigeria. They were randomly assigned
into either the PHCG (n = 25) or DG (n = 27) and treated twice weekly for 10
consecutive weeks using a physiotherapy intervention protocol comprising a
battery of task-specific exercises. The outcomes measured were motor function,
balance and handicap assessed using the modified motor assessment scale (MMAS),
short-form postural assessment scale for stroke (SF-PASS) and reintegration to
normal living index (RNLI), respectively, as well as walking speed which was
assessed using a standard technique. RESULTS: Between-group comparison using the
General Linear Model revealed no statistically significant difference in both the
pre- and post-intervention scores of the two groups on the MMAS, SF-PASS, RNLI
and walking speed in both PHCG and DG (p > 0.05). However, within-group
comparison yielded a statistically significant difference in each of the indices
of stroke recovery measured across the 10-week period in both groups. CONCLUSION:
Physiotherapy intervention at the primary health care centre and respective homes
of stroke survivors similarly improved clinical outcomes. Treatment at any of
these locations may enhance access to physiotherapy after stroke in a low-income
community like Nigeria. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Physiotherapy protocol
comprising 10-week task-specific battery of exercises produced significant
improvement in walking speed, balance, motor function and community reintegration
of stroke survivors. Physiotherapy post-stroke can be provided at either a
primary health centre or the domicile of the individual. In a low-income country
like Nigeria, this will enhance access to this important service.

Langue : ANGLAIS