Effects on Static and Dynamic Balance of Task-Oriented Training for Patients in Water or on Land

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to give task-oriented training to stroke patients in water and on land and compare their static balance and dynamic balance. A total of 10 types of task-oriented training were given in water and on land. [Subjects] A total of 34 patients received training for 50 minutes, three times a week, for 12 weeks. [Methods] The 34 patients were randomly divided into an in-water training group and an on-land training group. The patients received the same task-oriented training for 12 weeks. [Results] When the groups' static balance was compared, the in-water training group showed significant improvements in anteroposterior velocity (mm/s) and mediolateral velocity (mm/s) with eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC). The on-land training group showed significant improvements in values other than anteroposterior velocity (mm/s) with EC. When the groups' dynamic balance was compared, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups at 12 weeks. The in-water training group showed significant reductions in the time and distance taken to implement a task. [Conclusion] According to the results, task-oriented training received by chronic stroke patients in water was more effective at improving static balance and dynamic balance than on-land training.