Article

Poststroke lower-limb spasticity (LLS) has been shown to degrade
standing balance control by disrupting the temporal synchronization between
individual limb centers of pressure (COPs). Time-varying changes in standing
balance control associated with alterations in the extent of LLS have yet to be
documented and are important to informing treatment strategies to improve such
functional outcomes. Objective The present work aimed to understand the natural
recovery of standing balance control among stroke survivors with LLS using
limb-specific indices of standing balance control. Furthermore, we sought to
understand if time-varying changes in LLS were associated with alterations in
standing balance control. Methods A retrospective analysis of 92 participants was
performed; 47 participants never exhibited LLS during the study (No_LLS), and 45
participants exhibited LLS during at least 1 testing session (LLS). Quiet
standing for a duration of 30 s on 2 force platforms was recorded. Temporal
synchrony and spatial symmetry of COP displacements were assessed, along with
interlimb weight-bearing symmetry. Results All variables, except spatial
symmetry, indicated initial improvement followed by deceleration in the rate of
balance control recovery. Limb-specific measures indicated that individuals with
LLS exhibited deficits in balance control. The recovery trajectories were not
different between groups, suggesting a similar rate, but reduced extent, of
balance control recovery among the LLS relative to the No_LLS group. Only
temporal synchrony was altered by time-varying changes in spasticity. Conclusions
The present results suggest that the reduction in spasticity may be beneficial to
balance control recovery.
CI - (c) The Author(s) 2015.

Langue : ANGLAIS