Wanees M Badawy

Citation:

Sawan, S. A., E. M. Fahmy, A. Y. Radwan, and W. M. Badawy, Trunk kinetic and kinematic changes in chronic stroke patients, , Cairo, Cairo University, 2013.

Thesis Type:

Abstract:

Background: Trunk performance is directly related to disability. Evaluating the trunk could be helpful in establishing a rational treatment plan in the physical therapy rehabilitation of people with stroke. Objectives: The aims of this study were to assess the strength of trunk flexors and extensors and to measure trunk kinematics in chronic stroke patients as to compare the results with healthy control subjects. Methods: Thirty stroke patients and 20 matched healthy subjects participated in the study. All participants were right handed male and with age ranged between 40 to 56 years. Stroke patients had moderate spasticity, able to walk independently, with a score less than or equal 11 according to the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS). Biodex Isokinetic dynamometer was used to measure the peak torque of trunk flexor and extensor muscles and Extensor/Flexor ratio. A digital camera and Auto CAD computer software were used to measure trunk ROM in standing and seated postures from three planes (Sagittal, frontal and transverse planes). Results: Stroke patients showed significant decrease in trunk flexors and extensors peak torques with more reduction in the extensors as compared to the healthy subjects (P<0.05). Also stroke patients showed significant decrease in trunk ROM when been measured from the three planes. In addition a strong correlation was observed between trunk muscle torque and flexion–extension ROM. Conclusion: Stroke induced motor impairment of trunk muscle strength that may limit the chronic stroke patients to perform functional activities.

Key Words: Stroke - Trunk - Torque – Isokinetic - Kinematics - Auto CAD