The Effect of the Lumbar Vibratory Belt on Static and Dynamic Postural Stability in Post Stroke Hemiplegic Subjects

Background: Loss of postural control has been recognized as a major health problem in post-stroke hemiplegic patients. Vibratory somatosensory stimulation (VSS) is a novel method with considerable promises for improving postural stability in these subjects. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects and feasibility of local vibration through a lumbar belt on static and dynamic postural stability in post-stroke hemiparetic subjects. Methods: Eighteen stroke subjects participated in this study. Subjects were checked by Berg balance scale and then were asked to wear the vibratory belt which applies mechanical vibration on both sides of the posterior lumbar region. Balance control of the patients was tested in static and dynamic modes with open and closed eyes, in separate sets with and without vibration. Results: There was statistically significant stability improvement in overall stability index during applying vibratory belt ON. No significant evidence was shown the preferential balance improvement of the vibratory belt in either dynamic vs. static state or open vs. closed eye condition. Conclusions: Localized vibratory stimulation can improve the postural stability in patients with post-stroke hemiplegia.