Effects of robot-assisted trunk control training on trunk control ability and balance in patients with stroke: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Trunk control ability is an important component of functional independence after the onset of stroke. Recently, it has been reported that robot-assisted functional training is effective for stroke patients. However, most studies on robot-assisted training have been conducted on upper and lower extremities. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of robot-assisted trunk control training on trunk postural control and balance ability in stroke patients. METHODS: Forty participants with hemiparetic stroke were recruited and randomly divided into two groups: the RT (robot-assisted trunk control training) group (n= 20) and the control group (n= 20). All participants underwent 40 sessions of conventional trunk stabilization training based on the Bobath concept (for 30 minutes, five-times per week for 8 weeks). After to each training session, 15 minutes of robotassisted trunk control training was given in the RT group, whereas the control group received stretching exercise for the same amount of time. Robot-assisted trunk control training was conducted in three programs: sitting balance, sit-to stand, and standing balance using a robot system specially designed to improve trunk control ability. To measure trunk postural control ability, trunk impairment scale (TIS) was used. Center of pressure (COP) distance, limits of stability (LOS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and functional reach test (FRT) were used to analyze balance abilities. RESULTS: In TIS, COP distance, LOS, BBS and FRT, there were significant improvements in both groups after intervention. More significant changes were shown in the RT group than the control group (p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that robot-assisted trunk control training is beneficial and effective to improve trunk postural control and balance ability in stroke patients. Therefore robot-assisted training may be suggested as an effective intervention to improve trunk control ability in patients with stroke.