Effects of proprioception training with exercise imagery on balance ability of stroke patients

[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to examine and compare the effects of proprioceptive training accompanied by motor imagery training and general proprioceptive training on the balance of stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty-six stroke patients were randomly assigned to either an experimental group of 18 patients or a control group of 18 patients. The experimental group was given motor imagery training for 5 minutes and proprioceptive training for 25 minutes, while the control group was given proprioceptive training for 30 minutes. Each session and training program was implemented 5 times a week for 8 weeks. The Korean version of the Berg Balance Scale (K-BBS), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), weight bearing ratio (AFA-50, Alfoots, Republic of Korea), and joint position sense error (Dualer IQ Inclinometer, JTECH Medical, USA) were measured. [Results] Both groups showed improvements in K-BBS, TUG, weight bearing ratio, and joint position sense error. The measures of the experimental group showed greater improvement than the control group. [Conclusion] Motor imagery training, which is not subject to time restrictions, is not very risky and can be used as an effective treatment method for improving the balance ability of stroke patients.