Factors affecting balance and ambulation following stroke

Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1984 Jan-Feb:(182):165-71.

Abstract

Ninety consecutive patients with hemiplegic involvement following a single cerebrovascular accident were studied to assess the relative importance of factors affecting balance and ambulation. Only 50% of the patients achieved a community level of ambulation. Intact balance reactions correlated strongly with the ability to walk (r = 0.79). Balance was found to be dependent on limb control and proprioception. Age, sex, hemiplegic side, and structural factors did not correlate with function or recovery. The total score in each category of function was more highly correlated with balance and ambulation than were the individual scores.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Cerebrovascular Disorders / complications
  • Cerebrovascular Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Hemiplegia / etiology
  • Hemiplegia / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Locomotion*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postural Balance*
  • Proprioception
  • Sex Factors