Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Neuromuscular and Neurosurgery

Sensorimotor cortex is responsive to peripheral and central stimulation by mechanisms that are important for learning motor tasks. Of this study was to investigate difference between the effect of task oriented program and balance exercises on postural stability in stroke patients. Thirty stroke hemiparetic subjects were assigned into two equal groups (group I and II): group ( I ) received task oriented training program in addition to selected physical therapy program (PNF technique, weight bearing exercises and gait training) while group ( II ) received balance exercise in addition to selected physical therapy program (PNF technique, weight bearing exercises and gait training). Subjects were assessed using biodex stability system including postural stability test and clinical tests (berg balance scale, functional reach test, and time up and go test). This study revealed that balance is significantly improved in both groups with the best results for group I. Task oriented training could be considered a valuable method for treating balance in stroke patients

Issued also as CD