The effect of combined isometric and isotonic exercises on brain stroke patients’ static balance

Abstract

Background: Balance in stroke patients because of damage to muscles and control centers of the body are disrupted. <br />Aim: To determine the effect of combined isometric and isotonic exercises on brain stroke patients' static balance. <br />Method: In this clinical trial, 30 male patients with brain stroke were randomly allocated to one of experimental or control groups. An 8-week combined isometric and isotonic exercise program was performed at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. The program was performed for an hour three times a week. Before and after implementation of exercise program, the status of subjects' balance was measured by Biodex Stability System. The data were analyzed using independent and paired t-test (). <br />Results: The mean age of men in the experimental and control group was 55.07±6.11 and 52.67±5.67, respectively. There was a significant difference in the score of static (p=0.876), lateral (p=0.001) and anterior-posterior (p=0.805) balance in the experimental group after exercise program compared to the beginning of the study. But no significant difference was seen in this score in the control group after intervention. <br />Conclusion: The combined isometric and isotonic exercises have positive effect on the brain stroke patients' static balance. Nurses can use of these exercises without any need to special equipments.