Sport simulation as a form of implicit motor training in a geriatric athlete after stroke: a case report

Background and Purpose: To describe the use of sport simulation activities as a form of implicit motor learning training with a geriatric former athlete following a stroke. Case Report: An active 76-year-old former professional male softball player presented to outpatient physical therapy with medical history of right stroke with left hemiparesis 2 weeks following onset of symptoms of impaired balance, coordination, gait, and motor planning. Initial physical therapy included gait, balance, and coordination training. Additional sport-related balance and coordination activities were later added to the treatment plan. Outcomes: After approximately 3 weeks of treatment, the patient was able to return to work and had dramatically improved balance, coordination, and gait with sport simulation activities. Discussion: Implicit motor learning techniques were incorporated through sport and job task simulation activities along with task-oriented neuromuscular reeducation. The patient demonstrated improvements with gait, balance, gross motor function, and decreased fall risk.