Effects of Cognitive Task Training on Dynamic Balance and Gait of Patients with Stroke: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND The decreased postural control ability of stroke patients affects their ability to balance in various postures such as sitting and standing. This study aimed to determine whether cognitive task training for stroke patients is effective in improving walking and balancing abilities. MATERIAL AND METHODS Seventeen stroke patients (10 males, 7 females) were randomized by ballot to be assigned to the cognitive task group (CBT) or the general task group (GBT). For the cognitive task training, a dual task of balance and cognition using traffic signals, a familiar form to the subjects, was applied as a program. In both groups the interventions were performed for 30 min a day, 3 times a week, for 4 weeks. The timed up and go test (TUG), the Berg balance scale (BBS), and gait ability evaluation were performed to compare the therapeutic effects. RESULTS After the intervention, the BBS showed significant differences in both groups (p<0.05). The cognitive task training group had significant improvement in all outcome scores after the intervention (p<0.05). The TUG score of the CBT group significantly decreased to 6.17 s (p<0.05), but that of the GBT showed no statistically significant change. CONCLUSIONS Cognitive task training could be used in clinical rehabilitation as a more effective intervention method to improve balance and gait ability of stroke patients.