Comparative Effects of Vojta and Bobath Therapy on Lower Limb Spasticity and Motorcity among Hemiparetic Stroke Patients

Background: Stroke is a neurological condition caused by a sudden disruption of cerebral blood flow, leading to functional impairments. Hemiplegic patients often experience motor dysfunction and spasticity, particularly in the lower limbs. Effective rehabilitation techniques are essential for improving the quality of life. Objective: To compare the effects of Vojta and Bobath therapies on lower limb spasticity and motorcity in hemiparetic stroke patients. Methodology: A single-blinded randomised clinical trial was conducted over six months at two clinical sites in Faisalabad. A total of 46 eligible participants were randomly divided into two groups: Group A received Vojta therapy, while Group B received Bobath therapy. Participants aged between 25 and 74 years, diagnosed with hemiparetic stroke within the past 1-4 months, were included in the trial. Each session involved five repetitions of pressure application to designated reflex zones, with each application lasting two minutes followed by a one-minute rest period. Group B received facilitation-based Bobath therapy, also administered three times per week. Motor function and spasticity outcomes were measured before and after the intervention period using the Fugl-Meyer assessment scale for the lower limb and the modified Ashworth scale. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise demographic data, while inferential tests were employed to compare pre- and post-intervention scores within and between the two groups. Results: No significant differences were observed at baseline for both the Fugl-Meyer assessment and the modified Ashworth scale. At two weeks, Bobath therapy demonstrated earlier motor gains, while Vojta therapy showed more noticeable reductions in spasticity, though not statistically significant. By week four, a significant improvement in motor function was observed in the Bobath group, while the Vojta group showed greater reduction in spasticity, though between-group differences remained statistically non-significant. Within-group comparisons showed significant improvement over time in both therapies for both motor function and spasticity. Conclusions: Both Vojta and Bobath therapies are effective for improving lower limb function and reducing spasticity in stroke patients. Bobath therapy offers faster motor gains, whereas Vojta therapy demonstrates greater spasticity reduction. A combined or individualized approach may enhance post-stroke rehabilitation outcomes.