Compelled Body Weight Shift Approach in Rehabilitation of Individuals With Chronic Stroke

Purpose: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the compelled body weight shift (CBWS) therapy approach in the rehabilitation of individuals with chronic stroke. CBWS involves a forced shift of body weight toward a person's affected side by means of a shoe insert that establishes a lift of the nonaffected lower extremity. Method: Eighteen individuals with chronic, unilateral stroke (mean age 57.7 +/- 11.9 years, with a range of 35-75 years; mean time since stroke 6.7 +/- 3.9 years, with a range of 1.1-14.1 years) who showed asymmetrical stance were randomly divided into 2 groups: the experimental group received 6 weeks of physical therapy combined with CBWS therapy, and the control group received only physical therapy. Both groups underwent a battery of identical tests (Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Berg Balance Scale, weight bearing, and gait velocity) before the start of the rehabilitation intervention, following its completion, and 3 months after the end of therapy. Results: After the intervention, weight bearing on the affected side (measured with the Balance Master) increased in the experimental group to a larger degree compared to the control group (9.7% vs 6.4%). Similarly, gait velocity increased 10.5% in the experimental group compared to the control group. Improvements in weight bearing and gait velocity were maintained in the experimental group after the 3-month retention period. Conclusion: The study outcome revealed that a 6-week intervention involving CBWS therapy could result in a long-lasting improvement of the symmetry of weight bearing and velocity of gait in individuals with chronic stroke.