earticle

영어

We investigated the effects of the combined use of FES and over ground walking with partial body?weight support (PBWS) on walking function and balance control in people with chronic strokes. Methods : Twenty-seven people who were ambulatory after chronic strokes were evaluated. The exercise's intervention consisted of the combined use of FES and over ground walking with PBWS and general exercise groups. The FES + PBWS group and general exercise group consisted on a-20-minute session per day, 3 times a week during a 4 week period. The evaluation was carried out before, after, and two weeks after the exercise intervention. Outcome measures were a 6 Minute Walk Test, 6-Meter walk Test, Timed Up and Go Test, and a Balance Test, measured before and after the exercise interventions at a-2 week follow up. Results : The endurance was significantly increased in both the FES+PBWS group and general exercise group (p＜0.05). Significant increase on the gait velocity was observed in both the FES+PBWS group and general exercise group (p ＜0.05). The TUG was significantly different in both the FES + PBWS group and general exercise group (p＜0.05). However there were no differences in both the between-group & interaction. The stability index was significantly different in both the FES + PBWS group and general exercise group (p＜ 0.05). Conclusion : In conclusion, the combined use of FES and over ground walking with PBWS led to an improvement in walking function and balance control. Thus, it is possible to combine the use of FES and over ground walking with PBWS for physical therapy intervention to improve walking function and balance control. It is suggested to apply this intervention in the clinical field.