Effect of 2 Weeks of Dual Task Training on Balance and Gait in Patients with Stroke: Single Group Experimental Study

Background: Performing two or more tasks continuously and simultaneously or performing one task while simultaneously performing another task is referred to as “Dual-Task performance. People, whose cognitive or physical functions are not smooth, such as stroke patients and the aged, lose their physical abilities or experience physical injuries, such as falls when put into a situation of dual-task performance. Therefore, in this study, the effects of 2 weeks of dual- task training on balance and gait ability of stroke patients were investigated. Objective: To evaluate the effect of 2 week of Dual task training on Balance and Gait in patients with Stroke. Method: After getting the ethical approval, patients were screened and informed consent form was taken from them. At baseline and post intervention (after 2 weeks) balance and gait was assessed by using Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Functional Gait Assessment Scale (FGAS). Dual Task Training was given to the patient for 5 days a week for 2 weeks. All the patients received 30 min (3min x 10 tasks) of dual task training. Results: There was improvement in balance and gait which included scores of Berg Balance Scale and Functional Gait Assessment Scale. The results were similar to alternate hypothesis which state that there is difference between pre and post exercise score. Conclusion: The 2 week of Dual Task Training help in improving balance and gait in stroke patient. Trial registration: Clinical Trials Registry-India (CTRI) CTRI/2018/04/013535