This study aimed to examine the effect of Russian current stimulation on Anterior tibial group on postural stability and risk of falling in patients with stroke.
Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally and the main cause of disability, with ischemic strokes accounting for about 87% of cases. In 2010, over 11 million ischemic strokes occurred, predominantly in low and middle-income countries, leading to approximately three million deaths. Hemorrhagic strokes account for 13% of cases. Egypt, with an estimated population of 85.5 million, has a high stroke prevalence of 963 per 100,000 inhabitants. Postural imbalance is a common limitation, affecting 83% of acute stroke patients, and falls are frequent across all stages of recovery, with rates as high as 73% within six months post-discharge. Even in chronic stroke patients, the fall risk remains elevated compared to age-matched controls. Postural imbalance impacts quality of life, and rehabilitation is vital for regaining independence in daily activities. Up to 30% of stroke survivors experience significant permanent disabilities, and 20% require rehabilitation. Motor impairments, particularly in the lower limbs, limit daily activities, community participation, and quality of life. Poor lower-limb muscle performance affects balance, gait, and functionality, but interventions like Russian current have shown effectiveness in improving walking performance and motor recovery in chronic stroke survivors.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
40
Parameters were adjusted as the following frequency of 2.5 kHz and 50 bursts per second with 50 pulses per burst. The stimulus was applied for a 10 seconds "on" period followed by a 10 seconds "off" period for total treatment time 20 minutes.
Placebo Russian current stimulation was applied to the anterior tibial group without active current for 20 minutes.
The selected physical therapy exercise for both limbs was applied for 40 minutes, including passive, active assisted and active range of motion exercises, stretching of spastic muscles, strengthening of weak muscles (anterior tibial group), and finally functional mobility exercises.
Deraya University
Minya, Egypt
RECRUITINGStatic postural stability overall stability index (OST)
It was assessed for both groups through Biodex balance system. A training test was given to each patient followed by three consecutive tests in static mode. Each one lasted for 20 seconds with 10 seconds rest between each, changes were recorded in relation to the center of the platform, and the mean of three tests showing the postural fluctuations of women was automatically calculated by the device, and displayed on the screen of device.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Berg balance scale
It was used to assess the balance for all patients in both groups. The scale consists of 14 items, scored from 0 to 4, which are added to make a total score between 0 and 56. A higher score indicates better balance. The items vary in difficulty, from sitting in a chair to standing on one leg.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Risk of falls index
Risk of falls index of all patients in both groups was assessed through Biodex balance system. All patients in both groups were asked to bilaterally stand on the locked platform; then were asked to look in front to the screen that will adjusted according to their height, the hands were placed comfortably beside the body and they were advised to use the handles of the device in case of loss of balance and repeat the test from the beginning.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Hoda Mohamed Zakaria, PhD
CONTACT
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