Effects of the combination of rhythmic auditory stimulation and task-oriented training on functional recovery of subacute stroke patients

Abstract

[Purpose] This study examined the effects of rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) gait training on dynamic balance and gait ability of patients with subacute stroke using a smartphone metronome application. [Subjects] A total of 20 patients with subacute stroke were randomly divided into a rhythmic auditory stimulation gait training group (RAS group, n=10) and a control group (n=10). [Methods] Both groups received a two daily 30-min sessions of conventional physical therapy. Patients in the RAS group practiced rhythm auditory stimulation gait training using a smartphone metronome application, with a 30-minute training period three times per week for five weeks. The Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale, Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Four Square Step Test (FSST), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), Timed Up and Go test (TUG test), Up stair and Down stair times, and the GAITRite system were used for performance improvements measurements. [Results] Increases in dynamic balance and spatiotemporal gait parameters were observed in both groups. Compared with the control group, the RAS group showed significant improvements in scores on the ABC scale, DGI, TUG, and Up stair and Down stair times (p< 0.01). [Conclusion] RAS gait training using a smartphone metronome application improved the dynamic balance and gait abilities of patients with subacute stroke.