The effects of exercising on unstable surfaces on the balance ability of stroke patients

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of balancing exercises on unstable surfaces on the balance ability of stroke patients in a comparison with balancing exercises on stable surfaces. [Methods] The study subjects were 30 stroke patients (16 males and 14 females). They were separated into two groups; a stable surface exercise group (n=15) and an unstable surface exercise group (n=15). The balance ability of patients was measured using the Berg balance scale (BBS) and parameters of sway of the center of pressure (COP). The balancing exercises were modified from preceding studies and consisted of 6 difference exercises. Exercises were conducted six times a week for six weeks. [Results] Only the velocity moment decreased in the stable surface exercise group, whereas mediolateral and anteroposterior movement distances and the velocity moment decreased in the unstable surface exercise group. Thus, exercises on the unstable surface were more effective than on the stable surface. The degree of balance on both stable and unstable surfaces was lower with eyes closed than with eyes opened. The BBS scores of both groups increased, indicating improved balance ability. [Conclusion] This study found that balancing exercise on an unstable surface was more effective than on a stable surface at improving the balance of stroke patients.