Algorithm for selection of balance assessment tools in post-stroke patients
Nika Goljar1, Marko Rudolf, Nataša Bizovičar
1Department for Rehabilitation of Patients after Stroke, University Rehabilitation Institute, Republic of Slovenia, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Summary
Selecting the right balance assessment tool is crucial for stroke rehabilitation. This study proposes an algorithm based on the Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) to guide tool selection for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Stroke significantly impacts balance and mobility, necessitating effective assessment tools in rehabilitation.
- Standardized balance assessment is vital for tracking recovery and guiding therapeutic interventions post-stroke.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design an algorithm for selecting appropriate balance assessment tools for stroke patients in subacute rehabilitation.
- To evaluate the sensitivity of common balance tools across different functional ambulation levels.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of standardized balance measurements in 62 stroke patients.
- Patients were categorized into three groups based on Functional Ambulation Category (FAC).
- Comparison of balance assessment tool results at admission and discharge.
Main Results:
- Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) were sensitive for non-functional and ambulatory dependent groups.
- Ambulatory independent patients showed significant balance changes detected only by dynamic balance assessments like Timed Up and Go Test and Functional Gait Assessment.
- Commonly used tools (BBS, PASS) may not fully reflect overall balance function in all patient groups.
Conclusions:
- An algorithm for selecting balance assessment tools based on FAC is proposed for post-stroke rehabilitation.
- The choice of assessment tool should be tailored to the patient's functional ambulation level.
- Dynamic balance assessments are essential for detecting subtle improvements in ambulatory independent stroke survivors.
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