Exergame vs Balance Training in Hemiplegia

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Exergaming: Participants in this group will perform video-based exergame sessions in addition to conventional rehabilitation. These sessions will be conducted twice a week for four weeks, with each session lasting approximately 15-20 minutes under the supervision of a physiotherapist, using the Nintendo Switch Ring Fit Adventure game. The exergame program was designed by a specialist physiotherapist.

Balance exercise: Participants in this group will perform balance exercise sessions in addition to conventional rehabilitation. These sessions will be conducted twice a week for four weeks, with each session lasting approximately 15-20 minutes. Weeks 1-2: Weight shifting in parallel bars, marching in place within parallel bars, mini squats while holding the bars, tandem stance, and tandem and lateral walking in parallel bars. Week 3: Controlled weight shifting outside the parallel bars, tandem stance, marching in place, mini squats against a wall, backward walking in parallel bars, obstacle course walking, and kicking a stationary ball with the non-affected foot. Week 4: Picking up objects placed at different angles from a standing position, catching and throwing a ball, supported single-leg standing on the affected side, weight shifting on a balance board, kicking a moving ball with the non-affected foot, and obstacle walking tasks.

Study summary

Hemiplegia rehabilitation is a long and demanding process, but with the right approach and patience, it is possible to regain lost functions and improve quality of life. Balance plays a critical role in helping stroke survivors regain independence. This randomized controlled study aims to compare the effects of balance exercises and video-based exergame training, in addition to conventional physiotherapy, on lower extremity functionality, balance, gait, daily living activities, quality of life, and fear of falling in patients with hemiplegia following stroke.

A minimum of 30 eligible participants will be randomly assigned to two groups:

Group 1 (Balance Exercise Group): Conventional physiotherapy plus balance exercises.

Group 2 (Exergame Group): Conventional physiotherapy plus video-based exergame sessions using the Nintendo Switch Ring Fit Adventure.

Both interventions will be conducted twice a week for four weeks under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Assessments will be performed before and after the intervention using standardized scales.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Berg Balance Scale — Baseline and after 4 weeks
  To assess postural control and fall risk. The scale consists of 14 items scored from 0 to 4, with a total possible score of 56. Higher scores indicate better balance ability. Assessments will be performed at baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention. Type: Continuous (Score range: 0-56)
• Functional Reach Test — Baseline and after 4 weeks
  To measure dynamic balance and the ability to maintain a stable base of support while reaching forward. The distance between the starting and ending hand positions is recorded in centimeters. Higher values indicate better balance and lower fall risk. Type: Continuous (Distance in cm)

Trial sites (1)

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