Immediate Effects of Plantar Vibration on Fall Risk and Postural Stability in Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Local vibration can improve balance problems of individuals with stroke when applied to the plantar region. Aims This study aimed to determine the immediate effect of local vibration applied to the plantar region on fall risk and postural stability in patients with stroke. Study Design Randomized controlled study. Methods 30 patients (23 male,7 female) with stroke were randomized to either vibration (n = 15; 58.47 ± 8.23 years) or control (n = 15; 58.27 ± 9.50 years) groups. Before and after the intervention, the patients were evaluated using a Biodex Balance System. Local vibration was applied to the plantar region of two feet in the supine position using a vibration device for a total of 15 min to the individuals in the vibration group. While the patients in the placebo group were in the supine position, the device was brought into contact and no vibration was applied to the plantar region of two feet for 15 min. Results While significant improvements were observed in the postural stability and fall risk of the vibration group (p < 0.05), no significant change was observed in the placebo group (p > 0.05). Furthermore, significant improvements occurred in the SD values of the postural stability expressing postural oscillation in the vibration group (p < 0.05). Conclusion As a result of local vibration applied to the plantar region, immediate (within 5 min) significant improvements in postural stability and fall risk values were detected.