The Effect of Unilateral Stepping Exercise Combined with Auditory Feedback on Balance and Walking Ability in Hemiplegic Patients

청각적 되먹임을 이용한 편측 스테핑 운동이 편마비환자의 균형과 보행능력에 미치는 영향

Background: Hemiplegic patients have the problems of the balance and weight shifting to the affected leg in walking. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of unilateral stepping exercise combined with auditory feedback on balance and walking ability of the hemiplegic patients. Methods: Thirty hemiplegic patients were allocated in study group (n=15) or control group (n=15). General exercise and weight supporting exercise were conducted for the control group, and general exercises and unilateral stepping exercise combined with auditory feedback were conducted for the study group. Exercise were conducted three times a week for six weeks. Balance ability was measured by Berg Balance Scale (BBS), postural assessment scale for stroke (PASS), and performance-oriented mobility assessment (POMA). Walking ability was measured by time up and go test (TUG), 10m walk test (10mWT), and six minutes walk test (6MWT). Results: Balance and walking ability were significant increased in both group (p<.05). Balance and walking ability of the study group were more increased than that of the control group (p<.05). Conclusions: Unilateral stepping exercise combined with auditory feedback is more effective than weight supporting exercise to increase on balance and walking ability for the hemiplegic patients.