facilitation of the neutral foot position on balance and gait in patients with chronic stroke

This study aimed to identify the effect of facilitating neutral foot position on balance and gait in patients with chronic stroke. Thirty-two patients with stroke were randomly assigned to a study group (n=16) and control group (n=16). The neutral foot position was facilitated in the study group, and the control group received general physical therapy. Treatment intervention was performed for 30 min a day, 3 times a week for 6 weeks. Patient performance was evaluated on the Berg balance scale, functional reach test, timed up and go test and 10-meter walk test, as well as in terms of weight distribution ratio and limits of stability. There were significant differences in limits of stability, timed up and go, and 10-meter walk test in the study group compared with the control group (p<0.05). Additionally, significant differences were found across all items of weight distribution, limits of stability, Berg balance scale, functional reach test, timed up and go and 10-meter walk test (p<0.05) after the intervention in the study group. It was proved that facilitating a neutral position of the foot is an effective intervention method in stabilizing posture and improving functional gait in patients with chronic stroke.