The Effects of Sitting Trunk Exercises Contingent upon Foot Contact on Trunk Stability, Balance, and Gait in Chronic Stroke Patients on an Unstable Surface

Objective: This study investigated the effects of trunk exercises with and without foot contact in a seated position on an unstable surface on trunk stability, balance, and walking ability in patients with chronic stroke. Design: Randomized controlled pre-post two group design Methods: Thirty-six patients with stroke who performed trunk exercises based on foot contact were randomly assigned to two experimental groups. Both groups performed the same trunk exercises while seated, three times a week for six weeks, with each session lasting 30 min. During the first two weeks, the participants performed the exercises while sitting on a balance pad. In the third and fourth weeks, the participants used a half-inflated stability ball, whereas in the fifth and sixth weeks, they used a fully inflated stability ball. The trunk impairment scale, modified functional reach test, Berg balance scale, timed up-and-go test, 10 m walk test, and functional gait scale were measured before and after training. Results: The results showed significant improvements in trunk stability, balance, and gait variables in both groups (p<0.05). There were also significant differences between the two groups. Conclusions: This study confirmed that trunk exercises without foot contact can effectively improve trunk stability, balance, and gait ability in patients with chronic strokeand instability. Consequently, performing trunk exercises without foot contact can be considered a selective exercise method for patients with chronic stroke with decreased trunk stability, balance, and gait abilities.