Effects of active vibration exercise using a Flexi-Bar on balance and gait in patients with chronic stroke

Abstract

[Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the effect of active vibration exercise using a Flexi-Bar on the balance and gait of chronic stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-two patients with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to an experimental or control group (n=11 each). The experimental group performed active vibration exercise using a Flexi-Bar. Balance was measured using the Berg Balance Scale and Functional Reach Test. Gait was measured with the 10-meter Walk Test and Timed Up and Go Test. [Results] Intragroup comparisons in the experimental group showed significant differences in Berg Balance Scale, Functional Reach Test, 10-meter Walk Test, and Timed Up and Go Test results, whereas intergroup comparisons showed significant differences in Berg Balance Scale, Functional test, 10-meter Walk Test, and TUGT results. [Conclusion] On the basis of these results, it was concluded that active vibration exercise using a Flexi-Bar effectively improves the balance and gait of patients with chronic stroke.