Effect of Aquatic Therapy on Balance in Chronic Stroke Survivors

Background: Stroke is leading cause of impairment and disability globally. The primary and secondary impairments that arise in stroke make subject functionally dependent on everyone. Balance is a vital component that is necessary for activities of daily living. After stroke, the subject looses control over automatic postural mechanisms that are necessary for maintaining static and dymanic balance. Unless balance is properly achieved, further progression in treatment cannot be achieved. It is necessary to device protocols that overcome the latency in scientific methodologies and help in improvement of balance after stroke. Objective: To determine the effect of Aquatic therapy on balance in chronic post stroke survivors. Material and Methods: This was an experimental study where 20 subjects of stroke having impairments in balance were enrolled. Group A received conventional therapy and Group B received conventional along with aquatic therapy. Pre intervention assessment was done with the help of Berg balance scale. The treatment was given for three weeks (5 times/week). Post intervention changes were taken after 3 weeks. Statistical analysis was done using students T- test. Results: Results showed statistical improvement in control of balance with help of aquatic therapy along with conventional exercises over conventional alone. The Berg balance score of both confirms it (Mean of Group B is 42.5 over group A : 30.6) The time period required for this was comparatively less when compared with conventional exercises. Conclusion: Conventional exercises along with Aquatic therapy has shown to be significantly effective in improvement of balance in long standing stroke survivors. Major Findings: Conventional exercises practiced in aquatic mode have shown to be more beneficial in improving balance in individuals who have chronic stroke