Article

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of progressive resistance and balance (PRB)
exercises on physical and psychological functions of
post-stroke individuals.
METHODS: In a randomized controlled trial with follow-up at 3, 6 and 15 months, 67 community-living individuals (76% male; 65-85 years) with a
stroke 1-3 years previously were allocated to an intervention group (IG, n = 34;
PRB exercises combined with motivational group discussions twice weekly for 3
months) or a control group (CG, n = 33). The primary outcomes were balance (Berg
Balance Scale, 0-56 points) and mobility (Short Physical Performance Battery,
0-12 points) at 3 months. The secondary outcomes were 10 m comfortable walking
speed, physical activity levels, health-related quality of life, depression and
fall-related self-efficacy. RESULTS: At 3 months, the IG exhibited significant
improvements in balance (MD 2.5 versus 0 points; effect size [ES], 0.72; p <
0.01) and comfortable walking speed (MD 0.04 versus -0.05 m/s; ES, 0.68; p =
0.01) relative to the CG. A faster walking speed persisted at 6 months. No
differences were found for the other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: In chronic stroke
patients, 3 months of PRB exercises and motivational discussions induced
improvements in balance at 3 months and in walking speed at 3 and 6 months.
Implications for Rehabilitation
A progressive resistance and balance exercise
program supported by motivational group discussions and one home-based exercise
appears to be an effective means of improving the short-term balance and the
walking speed in individuals with chronic stroke. People with poor balance and
motor function discontinued the study more often and may require additional
support. There is a need for powerful and cost-effective strategies that target
changes in behavior to obtain long-term changes in physical function after exercising.

Langue : ANGLAIS