Assessment of balance abilities in patients with unilateral transtibial amputations in the pre-prosthetic phase of rehabilitation after balance exercises
Abstract
Introduction: Unilateral transtibial amputations are among the most frequent amputations , representing a major rehabilitation problem that requires the involvement of a greater rehabilitation team. In order to solve this kind of rehabilitation problem and make the patient with transtibial amputation functionally capable, it is necessary to implement an adequate program of balance exercises. Balance exercises in the pre-prosthetic phase of rehabilitation are of crucial importance in achieving better neuromuscular control, stability and functional mobility of patients with unilateral transtibial amputations.
Objective: To evaluate the impact of the applied balance exercises on the patients' balance abilities. Method: In the research, exercise programs applied were classified into easy, medium and difficult exercises, and along with a set of exercises, the subjects were exposed to various tests to assess the ability of patients to maintain balance: the test of reactive postural control, the test of the risk of falling in persons with amputations, functional reach test and balance intensity scale. Testing was performed before and after the applied balance exercise programs. 25 respondents participated in the research, patients of the ''Special Hospital for Rehabilitation and Orthopedic Prosthetics'', who participated by signing the voluntary informed consent form of the patients in the research.
Results: At the end of the period scheduled for practicing balance reactions, all subjects from the experimental group independently maintained balance during perturbations on the balance board, so that subjects who had a worse grade during the first attempt to maintain balance on the balance board achieved a more positive grade from the previous one.
Conclusion: Balance exercises in persons with unilateral transtibial amputations contributed to a higher level of functional abilities, mobility and stability in activities of daily life.
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