Effects of lumbar joint mobilization on trunk function, postural balance, and gait in patients with chronic stroke: A randomized pilot study

BACKGROUND: Patients with stroke have hypomobility in the facet joint of affected side. Lumbar joint mobilization could be used to maintain function and mobility of the joints. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of lumbar joint mobilization on trunk function, postural balance, and gait in patients with stroke. METHODS: Thirty patients with stroke were randomly assigned to two groups. Lumbar joint mobilization was provided for 15 min, 5 times a week for 6 weeks to patients who were allocated into the experimental group. Patients who were allocated into the control group received a sham intervention. Trunk function (trunk impairment scale), postural balance (weight distribution, Berg balance scale, and timed up and go test), and walking (10 m walk test, functional gait assessment, step length, and stride length) were evaluated before and after the experiment for all the patients. RESULTS: Lumbar joint mobilization significantly improved trunk function, postural balance, and gait compared with pre-test values in the experimental group (P < 0.05). Significant differences were seen in trunk function, postural balance, and walking between the two groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Lumbar joint mobilization might be an effective intervention for trunk function, postural balance, and walking in patients with stroke.