Aim:
The study aims to compare the effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation therapy versus conventional
therapy for improving balance and gait in post stroke patients.
Background of the study:
Stroke frequently produce severe neurological abnormalities, such as abrupt weakness or numbness on
one side of the body, and are one of the main causes of long-term disability. Confusion, headaches, lack
of coordination, and problems with balance are possible additional symptoms. Motor control
deficiencies are frequently seen by stroke survivors, which can result in diminished mobility, balance,
and postural control. More than 60% of stroke patients experience dizziness. Many methods have been
investigated to address these issues, such as gait training and balance control. Two promising treatments
are vestibular rehabilitation therapy and conventional therapy. Conventional therapy focuses onmobility issues, whereas vestibular rehabilitation tries to minimize balance loss. To help individuals
with neurological impairment regain motor control and enhance their balance, both approaches are
essential.
Methodology:
This experimental study was done in Faculty of Physiotherapy, involved 30 post-stroke patients aged
40-60. Patients underwent 4-week treatments of 20-30-minute sessions, three times daily, comparing
vestibular rehabilitation and conventional therapy. Assessments included Berg Balance Scale,
Wisconsin Gait Scale, Mini-BESTest, and Standing Balance Test. Inclusion criteria comprised acute
hemiplegic stroke patients with specific cognitive abilities, while exclusion criteria included chronic
hemiplegic stroke, cerebellar/brainstem lesions, and uncontrolled hypertension.
Results:
On comparing Pre-test and Post-test within Group A & Group B on Berg balance scale, Mini- BESTest,
wisconsin gait scale and standing balance test group A shows a significant difference in the mean values
at P ? 0.05 than group B.
Keywords: Stroke, balance, vestibular rehabilitation, conventional therapy, Gait
Publication date: 15/03/2025
https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2025/March/MS_IJBPAS_2025_MARCH_SPCL_1005.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2025/14.3.1005
