Can a self-ankle mobilization training program improve motor functions in patients with stroke?

This study compared the effectiveness of a 4-week self-ankle mobilization with movement (SAMM) training program with SAMM and an inclined board in patients with stroke. Researchers suggested that SAMM with an inclined board was superior to SAMM alone in the rehabilitation of these patients.

The most common complication after a stroke is decreased muscle control and reduced range of movement. A normal gait (walking) requires a flexing movement of the ankle. Prior studies showed that patients who had a stroke have a 50% reduction in this ankle movement. This limits their walking and balance ability.

Different treatments have been used to increase mobility in these patients, including SAMM. SAMM is a training program that uses a strap to enable free movement of the ankle. Other studies showed that adding an inclined board to the exercises improves treatment outcomes such as walking speed. However, it is still not clear how SAMM with an inclined board would improve the treatment outcomes of patients who had a stroke.

This study included 28 patients with paralysis of one side of the body after a stroke. These patients were assigned to 2 different groups. Both groups received standard rehabilitation treatment 30 minutes per session. Additionally, SAMM or SAMM with an inclined board were received 3 times a week for 4 weeks.

After 4 weeks of training, patients from both groups had significantly improved in ankle movement, balance, and walking ability. However, patients in the SAMM with an inclined board group had a greater improvement in movements when compared to the SAMM alone group.

This study showed that SAMM with an inclined board combined with standard rehabilitation is an effective option for the treatment of patients with one side paralysis after a stroke.

This study had a limited number of participants and a short follow-up period. Larger studies are needed.