An intensive massed practice approach to re-training balance post-stroke.
Stroke is the leading cause of disability among adults in the United States. Falls are highly prevalent and a significant source of complications post-stroke. This research study tested the efficacy of standard physical therapy (based on the task-oriented approach) delivered in a massed practice par...
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| Format: | Thesis Electronic eBook |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
2002
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Static URL is not available. In OregonPDF, search for the Author using the All tab. Static URL is not available. In OregonPDF, search for the Author using the All tab |
| Summary: | Stroke is the leading cause of disability among adults in the United States. Falls are highly prevalent and a significant source of complications post-stroke. This research study tested the efficacy of standard physical therapy (based on the task-oriented approach) delivered in a massed practice paradigm. The purpose of this study was to test if the intensive massed practice intervention (six hours/day for two consecutive weeks) could significantly improve balance function post-stroke. A single-subject multiple baseline design across subjects with probes was utilized with ten subjects with chronic stroke disability. Probe tests consisted of giving standing subjects six backward perturbations on a force platform and were conducted periodically throughout the three phases of the study design: baseline, training, and maintenance. Time to recover balance (stabilization of the center of pressure) in response to a platform perturbation was calculated. More extensive platform balance tests were conducted prior to, immediately post, and three months post-training. Clinical tests also were administered. The data revealed nine demonstrations of improved balance performance at five points in time. The ability of the subjects to recover from a balance threat improved, with mean times to stabilization decreasing from a mean of 2.35+/-.51 seconds during baseline to 1.581+/-.23 seconds during training, and further still to 1.45 +/-.29 seconds during maintenance. Intensive massed practice of standard physical therapy produced significant results in balance re-training with patients post-stroke. Current stroke rehabilitation techniques can be effective, but we need to provide an opportunity for greater amounts of practice. |
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| Item Description: | [Advisor:] Woollacott, MH. |
| Physical Description: | 201 pp |
