The effect of motor relearning on balance, mobility and performance of activities of daily living among post-stroke patients: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Background Balance and gait impairments are the most common motor deficits due to stroke, limiting the patients' daily life activities and participation in society. Studies investigating effect of task-specific training using biomechanical balance and gait variables (i.e. kinetic and kinematic parameters) as well as posturography after stroke are scarce. Objectives The primary aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and long-term outcome of task-specific training based on motor relearning program (MRP) on balance, mobility and performance of activities of daily living among post-stroke patients. Methods In this two-armed randomised controlled clinical trial, a total of 66 sub-acute stroke patients who meet the trial criteria will be recruited. The patients will randomly receive task-specific training based on MRP or a conventional physical therapy program (CPT). Twenty-four physiotherapy sessions will be conducted, divided into three training sessions per week, 1 h per session, for 8 weeks, followed by an analysis of changes in patient’s balance, gait and performance of activates of daily living at three time periods; baseline, post-intervention and follow-up after 3-months, using clinical outcome measures and instrumental analysis of balance and gait. Discussion The results of this study can guide to better understanding and provide an objective clinical basis for the use of task-specific training in stroke rehabilitation. Also, it intends to help bridge the current knowledge gap in rehabilitation and training recommendations to provide a therapeutic plan in post-stroke rehabilitation. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05076383). Registered on 13 October 2021 (Protocol version: v2.0).