Training the less-affected limb improves motor function in hemiplegic patients through cross transport

Objective To observe whether strength training of a healthy limb can produce a cross transport effect on the affected side. Methods Thirty hemiplegic stroke survivors were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group, each of 15, using a random number table. Both groups received conventional rehabilitation, while the experimental group was given training to strengthen dorsiflexion and the isometric resistance of their healthy ankles for 6 weeks. The maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and surface electromyography were measured before and after the training. The lower-extremity section of the simplified Fugl-Meyer motor function rating scale (FMA) was used to assess the subjects′ motor function. Results After the training, the average FMA score of the experimental group was significantly better than before the treatment and also significantly better than that of the control group after the treatment. After the training, the average IEMGs of the tibialis anterior muscle and the gastrocnemius in the treatment group were significantly different from those of their ipsilateral side before the treatment and in the control group after treatment. Significant differences before and after the treatment were observed in the average MVC of both tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscles in the experimental group, and between the experimental group and control group averages. Conclusion Ankle strength training of hemiplegics′ healthy limbs can strengthen the contralateral and antagonistic muscles, which indicates the cross transport of strength training. Isometric resistance training of the less-affected limb can improve the motor function of hemiplegics′ lower extremities. Key words: Hemiplegia; Strength training; Lower limb function; Cross transport