Hafsteinsdóttir TB, Kappelle J, Grypdonck MH, Algra A
The objective of this study was to measure the effects of Bobath-based (BB) therapy on depression, shoulder pain and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients during one year after stroke. Of 324 patients in 12 hospital patients in the intervention group received BB therapy, whereas patients in the control group received no BB therapy and a more task-oriented therapy. HRQoL was measured using the SF-36; depression was measured with the Center of Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale and shoulder pain was measured with the Visual Analogue Scale at discharge, 6 and 12 months. The results showed no effects of BB therapy on HRQoL or shoulder pain were found and after one year fewer patients were depressed in the BB group than in the non-BB group. The authors conclude that BB therapy did not have any effect on HRQoL or shoulder pain in stroke patients. Healthcare professionals should reconsider the use of BB therapy in the care of stroke patients.
Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 2007, 39(8):627-32