Kronik İnmeli Hastalarda Sanal Gerçeklik Eğitiminin İkili Görev Performansı, Denge ve Yürüme Üzerine Etkilerinin İncelenmesi

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of virtual reality training in addition to robot assisted gait training on dual task performance, balance and gait in chronic stroke patients. The study included 30 chronic stroke patients aged between 40-65 (57,93±5,91) years, stage 3 and above according the Functional Ambulation Classification (FAC) and with a score of 24 or above from the Standardised Mini Mental State Examination (SMMSE). The demographic data of the patients were recorded and evaluations were made twice before and after treatment. The dual task performance and gait speed of the patients evaluated with 10 meter walk test in 3 conditions (single, cognitive dual task and motor dual task). Balance of patients was measured with Berg Balance Test. Patients’ fear of falling was assessed using the International Fall Efficacy Scale. For gait ability Funcitonal Gait Assesment, for mobility Rivermead Mobility Index and for daily living activities Functional Independence Measure was used. All patients received neurodevelopmental therapy for 30 minutes 5 days in a week for 6 weeks. Fifteen patients in the control group received 45 minutes of robot-assisted gait training in addition to neurodevelopmental therapy and 15 patients in the study group received virtual reality training in addition to robot assisted gait training and neurodevelopmental therapy for a total of 12 sessions, during 6 weeks and 2 days per week. In the study group, single and dual task gait speeds and cognitive dual task performance increased (p <0.05) however no change was observed in the control group (p> 0.05). The balance, mobility and independence levels of the patients in both groups increased after treatment (p <0.05). In conclusion, both applications were effective in the rehabilitation of stroke patients, but virtual reality training could support cognitive development and increase the success of treatment.