Balance evaluation in hemiparetic stroke patients using lateral forces applied to the hip

A technique for assessing balance that involves applying predictable controlled forces to the hips is described. Impairments in hemiparetic stroke patients' balance were documented by comparing their hip movements during and after a push with those of control subjects of similar age. Stroke patients swayed further and took longer to stabilize hip position than did the control subjects. The disturbance to stroke patients' balance caused by the termination of lateral force caused them more difficulty than did the onset of the force. Differences between stroke patients' involved and noninvolved sides were more pronounced on release from a push than at its onset. The implications of the findings for the assessment and treatment of balance after stroke are discussed.