Britton E, Harris N, Turton A
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the amount of practice achieved and assess potential for effects on performance of 30 minutes of daily training in sit-to-stand. Eighteen stroke patients needing 'stand by' help to sit-to-stand participated. In addition to usual rehabilitation the experimental group practised sit-to-stand and leg strengthening exercises for 30 minutes, on weekdays for two weeks, with a physiotherapy assistant. The control group received arm therapy. Sit-to-stand frequency averaged 18 per day. Thirty minutes of practice in sit-to-stand resulted in a mean of 50 extra stands per day. There was a significant mean difference of 10% body weight taken through the affected foot after one week of intervention.
Task-specific practice given for 30 minutes a day appears promising for stroke patients learning to sit-to-stand.
Clinical Rehabilitation, 2008, 22(5), 458-68