Abstract
Objective: To compare the unstable surface trunk exercises as against the similar trunk exercises on stable surface, on trunk motor performance, functional balance and functional mobility in stroke patients.
Methodology: In this randomized controlled trial, 30 patients were recruited consecutively from Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. Trunk impairment scale, Time-up-and-go test, and BBS were used to assess trunk performance, balance and fall risk respectively.
Results: Both groups were balanced in term of gender, socioeconomic status, occupation, type of stroke, status of diabetes and hypertension at the baseline. Between groups change score for the BBS scale was 8.93 (6.32-11.54) and favored experimental group (P<0.002). Comparison of the total trunk impairment scale score between the groups demonstrated a change of 3.20 (1.48-4.91) (P<0.001). However, no significant difference found between the both groups in term of fall risk. Conclusion: The exercises performed on unstable surface were significantly more effective in term of trunk impairment and balance, as measured by Trunk Impairment Scale & Berg Balance Scale, respectively. However, there was no significant difference found in the fall risk.
