Early balance training with a computerized stabilometric platform in persons with mild hemiparesis in subacute stroke phase: A randomized controlled pilot study

Background: Along with conventional therapy, novel tools are being developed in balance training for the rehabilitation of persons with stroke sequelae. The efficacy of Computerized Balance Training thus far been the object of studies only in persons with chronic stroke.Objective: To investigate the effects of an early Computerized Balance Training on balance, walking endurance and independence in activities of daily living, in persons with mild hemiparesis in subacute phase.Methods: Thirty-two persons with a recent hemiparesis (within 4 weeks from stroke onset), able to maintain a standing position for at least 30 seconds, were randomly assigned to an experimental or control group. The control group (CG) were administered conventional physiotherapy of 40 minutes twice a day, 5 times a week for 4 weeks, while the experimental group (EG) underwent conventional physiotherapy 40 minutes once a day and Computerized Balance Training once a day, 5 times a week for 4 weeks. Outcomes were evaluated by means of Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Tinetti Balance Scale (TBS), Two Minutes Walk Test (2MWT), Barthel Index (BI) and stabilometric tests.Results: Twelve participants for each group completed the training. Each group experienced 8 dropouts. The mean age (years) was 58.1 +/- 20.4 for EG and 59.7 +/- 14,7 for CG; the days from stroke were respectively 27.9 +/- 15.5 and 20 +/- 11.7. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant in experimental group for BBS (p = 0.003), for TBS (p = 0.028), for Sensory Integration and Balance tests performed with closed eyes on steady (p = 0.009) or instable surface (p = 0.023). and for 2MWT (p = 0.008).Conclusions: Computerized Balance Training is an effective therapeutic tool for balance and gait endurance improvement in persons with stroke in subacute phase.