Remote delivery of seated exercises transfers to improved balance and mobility after stroke: a case report

Seated exercises can reduce the need for in-person assistance during remote-delivered programs, but its safety implications in stroke are unknown.

This case-report investigates the effect of a novel, remotely delivered 2-week seated exercise program on mobility in a person living with stroke.

A 68-year-old man living with a chronic stroke (>1-year post-stroke) and moderate disability (Modified Rankin Scale = 3) participated in a 2-week seated exercise program delivered remotely through videoconferencing (Zoom). Sessions were 60 min, 3 times per week. The participant worked on average at 37% of heart rate reserve (range: 21-53%).

No adverse events were reported during the 2-week intervention. After 2 weeks, Berg Balance Scale score improved by five points. Distance in the six-minute walk test increased from 218 m to 278 m and walking speed increased at self-selected walking (0.18 m/s) and fast-walking (0.28 m/s) pace. Sit-to-stands increased from 5 to 9 sit-to-stands in 30 s. Stroke Impact Scale improved in the following domains: hand function, activities of daily living, mobility, and participation.

This novel case-report demonstrated the potential for a 2-week seated exercise program to transfer to meaningful improvements in balance and mobility in a person living with a chronic stroke and mobility impairment. Given the stable seated position, no in-person support was required, while the instructor safely delivered the intervention remotely.