id_874. VISUAL BIOFEEDBACK-BASED TRUNK TRAINING IMPROVES LIMITS OF STABILITY IN SUBACUTE STROKE PATIENTS
Diana Bzdúšková1, Martin Gábor2,3, Zuzana Hirjaková1, Helena Šingliarová3, Peter Valkovič1,2, Jana Kimijanová1
1 Department of Behavioural Neuroscience, Institute of Normal and Pathological Physiology, Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
2 2nd Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
3 Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, University Hospital Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
INTRODUCTION: Stroke is a second leading cause of death and long-term disability worldwide. After stroke, Individualized rehabilitation is essential for restoring motor and neurological function. Trunk stability is crucial for activities such as standing and walking; however, sitting balance in the early post-stroke phase varies considerably. Hemiparetic patients frequently demonstrate trunk asymmetry and reduced mobility on the affected side. Recent evidence suggests that sensory stimulation combined with motor training may enhance recovery. Therefore, we implemented visual biofeedback-based trunk training to improve trunk symmetry and mobility.
AIM(S): To evaluate the effect of visual biofeedback-based sensory-motor training on trunk symmetry and functional limits of stability in subacute stroke patients.
METHOD(S): Twenty subacute stroke patients (17 men, mean age 64.1 years) completed an eight-day intervention. Using a custom-designed system, participants performed visually guided trunk tilts in a specialized chair with an integrated force platform and training software. Daily sessions lasted 15–20 minutes and included voluntary trunk tilts with visual biofeedback, vibration-induced involuntary tilts, and combined tasks. Outcomes included sitting stability (eyes open/closed) and functional limits of stability defined as maximal voluntary medio-lateral trunk displacement.
RESULTS: Analysis revealed significant improvement in functional limits of stability, ranging from 5% to 70%, with a mean increase of 33% on the paretic side (p < .001) and 28% on the non-paretic side (p < .001).
CONCLUSIONS: Improving trunk symmetry and balance is essential for functional independence after stroke. Repetitive visually guided trunk tilts combined with sensory stimulation expanded stability limits and may enhance multisensory integration and postural control.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT: Supported by VEGA 2/0098/25.