Effects of Bobath treatment and specific mobilizations on gait in stroke patients: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

BACKGROUND: After a stroke, patients experience sensorimotor damage, balance disorders, loss of selective movement, hypotonia and/or hypertonia, and hypersensitivity, all of which affect gait. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to establish the effectiveness of Bobath therapy with additional specific soft tissue mobilizations versus standard Bobath intervention. METHODS: Subjects were randomly divided into two groups (S1 and S2) of 20 people each. Both groups underwent the same intervention (Bobath concept) over a 5-week period, while the second study group (S2) also received additional, specific soft tissue mobilization. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), Active Range of Motion (AROM) of dorsiflexion and knee flexion and extension were used as clinical variables to assess the efficacy of therapy modalities. Data was analysed using a mixed model ANOVA. RESULTS: A significant interaction of group and time was found. The experimental (S2) group had a larger improvement of balance and AROM than the control (S1) group. There was no clear advantage of one group over the other for TUGT. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that a combination of Bobath treatment and additional specific soft tissue mobilizations are more effective in increasing AROM and balance and mobility.