Strength of knee flexors of the paretic limb as an important determinant of functional status in post-stroke rehabilitation.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the multi-modal exercise program (MMEP) in patients after stroke, and to identify muscles that are the best predictors of functional performance and changes in functional status in a 3-week rehabilitation program.

METHODS:

Thirty-one post-stroke patients (60.6±12.7 years) participating in a 3-week MMEP took part in the study. Measurements of extensor and flexor strength of the knee (Fext, Fflex) were done. Functional performance was measured using Timed Up & Go test (TUG), 6-Minute Walk Test (6-MWT) and Tinetti Test.

RESULTS:

The rehabilitation program improved all the results of functional tests, as well as the values of strength in the patients. Both baseline and post-rehabilitation functional status was associated with knee flexor and extensor muscle strength of paretic but not of non-paretic limbs. At baseline examination muscle strength difference between both Fflexkg-1 and Fextkg-1 had an influence on functional status. After rehabilitation the effect of muscle strength difference on functional status was not evident for Fextkg-1 and, interestingly, even more prominent for Fflexkg-1.

CONCLUSIONS:

MMEP can effectively increase muscle strength and functional capacity in post-stroke patients. Knee flexor muscle strength of the paretic limb and the knee flexor difference between the limbs is the best predictor of functional performance in stroke survivors.

• Authors: Joanna Kostka, Jan Czernicki, Magdalena Pruszyńska, Elżbieta Miller
• Journal: Neurologia i neurochirurgia polska (Neurol Neurochir Pol) 2017 May - Jun Vol. 51 Issue 3 Pg. 227-233 ISSN: 0028-3843 [Print] Poland
• PMID: 28385338 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2017 Polish Neurological Society. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Aged
• Disability Evaluation
• Female
• Humans
• Knee Joint (physiopathology)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Muscle Strength (physiology)
• Paralysis (physiopathology, rehabilitation)
• Prognosis
• Stroke (physiopathology)
• Stroke Rehabilitation (methods)