Effects of Body Weight Support-Tai Chi Footwork Training on Balance Control and Walking Function in Stroke Survivors with Hemiplegia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Tai Chi (TC) is known to enhance balance control and walking function in stroke survivors. However, motor disorders in stroke patients may limit the implementation of TC exercise and increase the risk of falling. The body weight support (BWS) device can provide protection during the early rehabilitation of stroke survivors using an overhead suspension system. Theoretically, combining TC with BWS may be an effective intervention for stroke survivors. This study aimed to examine the effects of body weight support-Tai Chi training on balance control and walking function in stroke survivors with hemiplegia.

Methods

Seventy-one stroke survivors with hemiplegia aged 30-75 years were randomly allocated to the control group (N = 35) or the BWS-TC group (N = 

SUBMITTER: Yu XM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7769631 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature