Gravedad de accidentes cerebrovasculares para determinar síntomas osteomusculares en cuidadores familiares / Stroke severity to determine musculoskeletal symptoms in family caregivers / Gravidade do AVC e determinação dos sintomas musculoesqueléticos dos cuidadores familiares

Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio es examinar la relación entre los problemas osteomusculares sufridos por cuidadores familiares que tienen a su cargo velar por pacientes que han sufrido un accidente cerebrovascular y los niveles de salud física y discapacidad. Método: los sujetos incluidos en el estudio eran pacientes y cuidadores familiares atendidos en la clínica de servicios ambulatorios de Fisioterapia y Rehabilitación del Hospital Universitario y de Investigación Kanuni Sultan Suleyman por diagnósticos de ACV entre el 30 de mayo de 2019 y el 30 de mayo de 2021. Los cuidadores fueron evaluados mediante el Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Se emplearon escalas validadas para evaluar los niveles de salud física y discapacidad de los sobrevivientes de accidentes cerebrovasculares. Resultados: los participantes de este estudio fueron 104 sobrevivientes de accidentes cerebrovasculares y 104 cuidadores que cumplieron con nuestros criterios de inclusión. Las quejas relacionadas con la región lumbar durante el último mes se asociaron con las puntuaciones obtenidas por los pacientes en el Functional Ambulation Score (FAS), la Functional Independence Measure (FIM) y la Stroke Impact Scale (SIS), además de las puntuaciones Brunnstrom. El dolor de cuello fue la segunda queja osteomuscular, aunque no se asoció estadísticamente con factores relacionados con los pacientes. Los problemas en las extremidades superiores se asociaron con las puntuaciones obtenidas en los instrumentos FAS, FIM, SIS, Brunnstrom y Modified Ashworth Scale. Conclusión: de acuerdo con nuestros hallazgos, la región lumbar es la parte del cuerpo más afectada por quejas osteomusculares en cuidadores familiares de sobrevivientes de accidentes cerebrovasculares, demostrando una estrecha relación con los niveles de capacidad funcional y discapacidad de los pacientes. Número de registro de ensayos clínicos: NCT04901637

Objective: the objective of this study is to examine the relationship between the musculoskeletal problems experienced by the family members who care for stroke patients, physical health and disability levels. Method: the subjects included in the study were patients and family caregivers admitted to the Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Training and Research Hospital Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation outpatient clinic with a stroke diagnosis between May 30 th, 2019, and May 30 th, 2021. The caregivers were assessed using the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Validated scales were employed to evaluate stroke patients' physical health and disability level. Results: a total of 104 stroke patients and 104 caregivers who met our inclusion criteria took part in this study. Low back complaints in the last month were associated with the patients' Functional Ambulation Score (FAS), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) and Brunnstrom scores. Neck pain was the second musculoskeletal complaint, but was not statistically associated with patient-related factors. Upper limb problems were associated with FAS, FIM, SIS, Brunnstrom and the Modified Ashworth Scale scores. Conclusion: according to our findings, the low back is the body area most affected by musculoskeletal complaints in family caregivers of stroke patients, closely related to the patients' functional capacity and disability levels. Clinical trials number: NCT04901637

Objetivo: o objetivo deste estudo é examinar a relação entre os problemas musculoesqueléticos vivenciados pelos familiares que cuidam de pacientes com AVC, a saúde física e o nível de deficiência do paciente. Método: foram incluídos no estudo pacientes e familiares cuidadores admitidos no hospital Kanuni Sultan Suleyman com diagnóstico de AVC entre 30 de maio de 2019 e 30 de maio de 2021. Os cuidadores foram avaliados utilizando o questionário Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Escalas validadas foram usadas para avaliar a saúde física e o grau de incapacidade dos pacientes com AVC. Resultados: um total de 104 pacientes com AVC e 104 cuidadores atenderam aos critérios de inclusão do estudo. As queixas lombares no último mês foram associadas aos escores do Functional Ambulation Score (FAS), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) e teste de Brunnstrom do paciente. A dor no pescoço foi a segunda queixa musculoesquelética, mas não foi estatisticamente associada a fatores relacionados ao paciente. Os problemas nas extremidades superiores foram associados aos escores FAS, FIM, SIS, Brunnstrom e à Modified Ashworth Scale. Conclusão: e acordo com os nossos achados, a região lombar é a área do corpo mais afetada por queixas musculoesqueléticas nos cuidadores familiares de pacientes com AVC, que estão intimamente relacionadas ao nível de capacidade funcional e ao grau de incapacidade dos pacientes. Número do estudo clínico: NCT04901637.

Rehabilitación neuromotora en unidades de tratamiento del ataque cerebrovascular / Neuromotor rehabilitation in stroke treatment units

RESUMEN: Introducción: El Ataque Cerebro Vascular (ACV) es la segunda causa de muerte a nivel mundial y primera causa de discapacidad en el adulto. Su complejidad requiere de una atención integral a través de un equipo multiprofesional, implementado en las denominadas Unidades de Tratamiento del Ataque Cerebrovascular (UTAC). Considerando su relevancia e impacto en el pronóstico, es fundamental conocer las acciones desarrolladas en el ámbito de la rehabilitación neuromotora en estas unidades, información que actualmente es limitada. Método: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, la muestra fue por conveniencia, participaron 5 kinesiólogos de establecimientos públicos de salud. La recolección de información se realizó con una encuesta en línea enfocada a las acciones que se realiza en la UTAC. El análisis de datos se realizó con STATA 15 y ATLAS TI 8.0. Resultados: El inicio y frecuencia de la rehabilitación neuromotora es variable, ocurre entre las 24 y 48 horas posterior al diagnóstico. Diariamente se realizan entre una a tres sesiones por usuario, su duración varía desde 25 a 90 minutos. Las acciones neuromotoras son de carácter integral y multiprofesional, el abordaje incluye el componente neuromotor, respiratorio y estado cognitivo. Las acciones neuromotoras incorporan técnicas de facilitación de la postura más alta lograda por el usuario y estimulación sensorial, entre otras. Conclusiones: La rehabilitación neuromotora en las UTAC de Chile muestra realidades diferentes en cuanto a la identificación, funcionamiento y la intervención neuromotora.

ABSTRACT Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of death in the world and the first cause of disability in adults. Its complexity requires comprehensive care provided by a multiprofessional team, implemented in the so-called Stroke Treatment Units (STUs). In view of their relevance and impact on the prognosis, identifying activities developed in the framework of neuromotor rehabilitation is of fundamental importance, information which, at present, is not readily available. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study, convenience sampling with the participation of 5 kinesiologists from public health centers in Chile. Information was collected by means of an online survey focused on the work being carried out in the STUs. Data analysis was performed using STATA 15 and ATLAS TI 8.0 software. Results: Initiation and frequency of neuromotor rehabilitation is variable and occurs between 24 and 48 hours after diagnosis. Between one and three daily sessions per user are performed and their duration varies from 25 to 90 minutes. Neuromotor activities are integral and multiprofessional; the approach includes neuromotor, respiratory and cognitive components. Neuromotor activities incorporate facilitation techniques for the most advanced user posture achieved and sensory stimulation, among others. Conclusions: Neuromotor rehabilitation in Chile´s STUs shows different realities in terms of identification, functioning and neurokinetic intervention.

An overview of dysphagia rehabilitation for stroke patients / Uma revisão das terapias de reabilitação para disfagia em pacientes com acidente vascular cerebral

ABSTRACT Background: Dysphagia is characterized by difficulty in the swallowing pattern at any stage of this neuromuscular process. It is a frequent symptom after stroke. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the most commonly used phonoaudiological interventions as therapy for the treatment of swallowing disorders in patients with dysphagia after stroke. Methods: We performed a review of studies indexed in MEDLINE-PubMed, LILACS, Cochrane, and Clinical trials.gov focusing on speech-language interventions for adult dysphagic patients after stroke between January 2008 and January 2021. Results: Thirty-six articles of clinical trials were selected. Eleven different types of therapies have been studied. Studies on the efficacy of therapeutic interventions for the rehabilitation of adult patients with dysphagia after stroke are still scarce. Most techniques are combined with conventional therapy, so the effectiveness of the other techniques alone cannot be assessed. Conclusions: Therapeutic interventions should be selected in accordance with the possibilities and limitations of the patients, and especially with the findings of the clinical evaluation and with its objective.

RESUMO Antecedentes: A disfagia é caracterizada como uma dificuldade no padrão de deglutição em qualquer fase desse processo neuromuscular. É um sintoma frequente após o Acidente Vascular Cerebral. Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar as intervenções fonoaudiológicas mais utilizadas como terapia para o tratamento dos distúrbios da deglutição em pacientes com disfagia pós AVC. Métodos: Realizamos uma revisão dos estudos indexados no MEDLINE-PubMed, LILACS, Cochrane e Clinical trials.gov com foco nas intervenções fonoaudiológicas em pacientes adultos e disfágicos após AVC entre janeiro de 2008 e janeiro de 2021. Resultados: Foram selecionados trinta e seis artigos de ensaios clínicos e estudados onze tipos de terapia. Os estudos sobre a eficácia de intervenções terapêuticas para a reabilitação destes pacientes adultos ainda são restritos. A maioria das técnicas é aplicada em combinação com a terapia convencional, tornando inconclusiva a medição da eficácia de outras técnicas isoladamente. Conclusões: As intervenções terapêuticas devem ser escolhidas de acordo com as possibilidades e limitações dos pacientes e, principalmente, com os achados da avaliação clínica e seu objetivo.

Efectividad de ejercicios para rehabilitar la disfagia orofaríngea posterior a un accidente cerebrovascular: una revisión integradora / Effectiveness of exercises to rehabilitate oropharyngeal dysphagia after stroke: an integrative review

Introducción. La selección del tratamiento para pacientes con disfagia debe ba-sarse en evidencia con la mejor calidad posible. Este tratamiento puede involucrar ejercicios de rehabilitación con el objetivo de modificar la fisiología de la deglución y promover cambios a largo plazo.Objetivo. Explorar los efectos de ejercicios y maniobras destinadas a la reactivación de la función de deglución en personas con disfagia orofaríngea posterior a un acci-dente cerebrovascular, a través de publicaciones científicas existentes en los últimos diez años.Metodología. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura en las bases de datos PubMed con los términos MeSH "Deglutition Disorders" y "Exercise Therapy", y con los términos libres "Dysphagia" y "Swallowing Therapy", combinados con el booleano de intersección "AND".Resultados. Los ejercicios con entrenamiento de resistencia de lengua al paladar, entrenamiento de la fuerza muscular espiratoria (EMST), chin tuck contra resisten-cia (CTAR), Shaker y apertura mandibular fueron los que mostraron, con mayor respaldo bibliográfico, efectos positivos en el tratamiento de la disfagia. Conclusiones. La información recopilada podría ser de utilidad clínica para guiar la selección de uno u otro procedimiento terapéutico. Se debe continuar generando evidencia relacionada con la efectividad de los ejercicios deglutorios en la disfagia orofaríngea posterior a un ACV

Introduction. The treatment selection for patients with dysphagia should be based on the best possible quality evidence. This treatment may involve rehabili-tative exercises with the aim of modifying swallowing physiology and promoting long-term changes.Objective. To explore the effects of exercises and maneuvers aimed at reactivating swallowing function in people with oropharyngeal dysphagia after a stroke, through existing scientific publications from the last ten years.Methodology. A literature review was carried out in the PubMed databases with the MeSH terms "Deglutition Disorders" and "Exercise Therapy", and with the free terms "Dysphagia" and "Swallowing Therapy", combined with the Boolean inter-section "AND".Results. The tongue-to-palate resistance training exercises, expiratory muscle strength training (EMST), chin tuck against resistance (CTAR), Shaker, and jaw opening were those that showed, with greater bibliographic support, positive effects in the treatment of dysphagia.Conclusions. The information collected could be of clinical utility to guide the selection of one or another therapeutic procedure. Evidence should continue to be generated regarding the effectiveness of swallowing exercises in oropharyngeal dys-phagia after stroke

Gait, balance, and functional independence level in stroke patients

Introduction: Most stroke patients present limited movement, which alters gait speed and balance. This study aimed to correlate balance and gait speed, and weight distribution and balance in post-stroke patients.Methods: In total, 36 participants were included. Data collection occurred as follows: filling out the assessment form; assessment with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS); assessment with the baropodometric platform; performing the 10 Meter Walk Test (10mWT) with accelerometer; measurements with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS); the Functional Ambulation Classification (FAC); and the Barthel Index (BI).Results: A negative correlation between FAC and mRS (r = −0.708; p < 0.05) and between BI and mRS (r = −0.716; p < 0.05) was found. The correlation between BI and FAC was positive (r = 0.591). There was a strong positive correlation between the 10mWT values and the BBS score (r = 0.708; p < 0.05). Moreover, a weak negative correlation was observed between BBS values and lower limb weight distribution (r = −0.378; p < 0.05).Conclusion: We found a correlation between the functional ambulation and the degree of independence.This study showed that the better the balance, the greater the gait speed, and the lower the difference on lower limbs weight distribution, the better the balance in post-stroke patients.

Effectiveness of physical exercise on the recovery of limb function in stroke patients / Eficácia do exercício físico na recuperação da função dos membros em pacientes com avc / Efectividad del ejercicio físico en la recuperación de la función de las extremidades en pacientes con acv

ABSTRACT Introduction Patients with cerebrovascular accident and hemiplegia need to perform physical exercise and aerobic training, but physical dysfunction restricts the performance of these activities. Objective The article aims to develop physical strength sports for stroke patients with hemiplegia to explore the efficacy of sports to regain limb function in these patients. Methods We randomly selected 30 patients with stroke sequelae and divided them into control and exercise groups. While undergoing rehab, the exercise group performed a certain amount of aerobic exercise. During this period, we compared the relevant physiological indicators of the patients, and, at the same time, we used the Fugle-Meyer motor function scoring method to assess limb function. Results The two groups of patients are significantly different regarding the recovery of physical function and the capacity for daily life. Physiological indicators of patients are also different. Conclusion Low-intensity aerobic exercise can help stroke and hemiplegia patients regain their basic ability to live and exercise. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies: investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução É muito importante que pacientes com acidente vascular encefálico e hemiplegia realizem exercícios físicos e treinamento aeróbio, mas a disfunção física restringe a realização dessas atividades. Objetivo o artigo tem como objetivo desenvolver esportes de força física para pacientes com AVC com hemiplegia para explorar a eficácia dos esportes para recuperar a função dos membros nesses pacientes. Métodos Selecionamos aleatoriamente 30 pacientes com sequela de AVC e os dividimos em grupos controle e exercício. Durante a reabilitação, o grupo de exercícios realmente executou uma certa quantidade de exercícios aeróbicos. Durante esse período, comparamos os indicadores fisiológicos relevantes dos pacientes e, ao mesmo tempo, usamos o método de pontuação da função motora de Fugle-Meyer para avaliar a função dos membros. Resultados Os dois grupos de pacientes são significativamente diferentes em termos de recuperação da função física e capacidade para a vida diária. Os indicadores fisiológicos dos pacientes também são diferentes. Conclusão O exercício aeróbico de baixa intensidade pode ajudar os pacientes com derrame e hemiplegia a recuperar sua capacidade básica de viver e se exercitar. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos: investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción Es muy importante para los pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular y hemiplejía realizar ejercicio físico y entrenamiento aeróbico, pero la disfunción física restringe la realización estas actividades.Objeto: El artículo tiene como objetivo desarrollar deportes de fuerza física para pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular con hemiplejía para explorar la eficacia de los deportes para recuperar la función de las extremidades de estos pacientes. Métodos Seleccionamos aleatoriamente a 30 pacientes con secuelas por accidente cerebrovascular y los dividimos en grupos de control y de ejercicio. Mientras se sometía a rehabilitación, el grupo de ejercicio llegó a realizar una cierta cantidad de ejercicio aeróbico. Durante este período, comparamos los indicadores fisiológicos relevantes de los pacientes y, al mismo tiempo, utilizamos el método de puntuación de la función motora de Fugle-Meyer para evaluar la función de las extremidades. Resultados Los dos grupos de pacientes son significativamente diferentes en cuanto a la recuperación de la función física y la capacidad para la vida diaria. Los indicadores fisiológicos de los pacientes también son diferentes. Conclusión El ejercicio aeróbico de baja intensidad puede ayudar a los pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular y hemiplejía a recuperar su capacidad básica de vida y ejercicio. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos: investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Effects of aerobic physical exercise on neuroplasticity after stroke: systematic review / Efeitos do exercício físico aeróbico na neuroplasticidade após o acidente vascular cerebral: revisão sistemática de literatura

ABSTRACT Background: Stroke is among the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Interventions for stroke rehabilitation aim to minimize sequelae, promote individuals' independence and potentially recover functional damage. The role of aerobic exercise as a facilitator of post-stroke neuroplasticity in humans is still questionable. Objective: To investigate the impact of aerobic exercise on neuroplasticity in patients with stroke sequelae. Methods: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials and crossover studies was performed, with searches for human studies in the following databases: PUBMED, EMBASE, LILACS and PeDRO, only in English, following the PRISMA protocol. The keywords used for selecting articles were defined based on the PICO strategy. Results: This systematic review evaluated the impacts of aerobic exercise on neuroplasticity through assessment of neural networks and neuronal excitability, neurotrophic factors, or cognitive and functional assessment. Studies that evaluated the effects of aerobic exercise on neuroplasticity after stroke measured through functional resonance (fMRI) or cortical excitability have shown divergent results, but aerobic exercise potentially can modify the neural network, as measured through fMRI. Additionally, aerobic exercise combined with cognitive training improves certain cognitive domains linked to motor learning. Studies that involved analysis of neurotrophic factors to assess neuroplasticity had conflicting results. Conclusions: Physical exercise is a therapeutic intervention in rehabilitation programs that, beyond the known benefits relating to physical conditioning, functionality, mood and cardiovascular health, may also potentiate the neuroplasticity process. Neuroplasticity responses seem more robust in moderate to high-intensity exercise training programs, but dose-response heterogeneity and non-uniform neuroplasticity assessments limit generalizability.

RESUMO Antecedentes: O acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) é a segunda causa principal de morte no mundo. Intervenções para reabilitação dos pacientes com AVC visam minimizar sequelas, promover sua independência e potencialmente recuperar danos funcionais. O papel do exercício aeróbico como facilitador da neuroplasticidade pós-AVC em humanos ainda é questionável. Objetivo: Investigar o impacto do exercício aeróbico na neuroplasticidade em pacientes com sequelas de AVC. Métodos: Foi realizada revisão sistemática de literatura, pesquisando nas seguintes bases de dados: PUBMED, EMBASE, LILACS e PeDRO. Foram selecionados trabalhos em língua inglesa, realizados apenas com humanos, seguindo o protocolo PRISMA. As palavras-chave utilizadas para a seleção de artigos foram definidas com base na estratégia PICO. Resultados: Esta revisão sistemática avaliou os impactos do exercício aeróbico na neuroplasticidade através da avaliação das redes neurais e da excitabilidade neuronal, por meio de fatores neurotróficos, por meio da avaliação cognitiva e funcional. Estudos que avaliaram os efeitos do exercício aeróbico sobre neuroplasticidade após o AVC medido através de ressonância funcional ou excitabilidade cortical, são controversos, mas há dados sugerindo uma modificação da rede neural na ressonância funcional após o exercício aeróbico. Há evidências de que, associar exercício aeróbico com treinamento cognitivo melhora certos domínios cognitivos ligados à aprendizagem motora. Estudos que envolveram a análise de fatores neurotróficos, como avaliação da neuroplasticidade, tiveram resultados conflitantes. Conclusões: Exercício aeróbico é uma intervenção terapêutica em programas de reabilitação, pois, além de proporcionar os benefícios no condicionamento físico, funcionalidade, humor e saúde cardiovascular, pode potencializar a neuroplasticidade.

Effects of rehabilitation programs on heart rate variability after stroke: a systematic review / Efeitos dos programas de reabilitação na variabilidade da frequência cardíaca após acidente vascular cerebral: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Background: It has been shown that the autonomic nervous system can be modulated by physical exercise after stroke, but there is a lack of evidence showing rehabilitation can be effective in increasing heart rate variability (HRV). Objective: To investigate the effectiveness and safety of rehabilitation programs in modulating HRV after stroke. Methods: The search strategy was based in the PICOT (patients: stroke; interventions: rehabilitation; comparisons: any control group; outcomes: HRV; time: acute, subacute and chronic phases of stroke). We searched MEDLINE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, LILACS, and SCIELO databases without language restrictions, and included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-randomized controlled trials (quasi-RCTs), and non-randomized controlled trials (non-RCTs). Two authors independently assessed the risk of bias and we used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology to rate the certainty of the evidence for each included study. Results: Four studies (two RCTs with low certainty of the evidence and two non-RCTs with very low certainty of the evidence) were included. Three of them showed significant cardiac autonomic modulation during and after stroke rehabilitation: LF/HF ratio (low frequency/high frequency) is higher during early mobilization; better cardiac autonomic balance was observed after body-mind interaction in stroke patients; and resting SDNN (standard deviation of normal R-R intervals) was significantly lower among stroke patients indicating less adaptive cardiac autonomic control during different activities. Conclusions: There are no definitive conclusions about the main cardiac autonomic repercussions observed in post-stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation, although all interventions are safe for patients after stroke.

RESUMO Antecedentes: O sistema nervoso autônomo pode ser modulado pelo exercício físico após o acidente vascular cerebral (AVC), mas faltam evidências que demonstrem que a reabilitação pode ser eficaz no aumento da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC). Objetivo: Investigar a eficácia e segurança dos programas de reabilitação na modulação da VFC após o AVC. Métodos: A estratégia de busca foi baseada na estratégia PICOT (pacientes: AVC; intervenções: reabilitação; comparações: qualquer grupo de controle; desfechos: VFC; tempo: fase aguda, subaguda e crônica). Foi realizada busca nas bases MEDLINE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, LILACS e SCIELO sem restrições de idioma, sendo incluídos ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECRs), ensaios clínicos quasi-randomizados (quasi-ECRs) e ensaios clínicos não-randomizados (não-ECRs). Dois autores avaliaram independentemente o risco de viés e a metodologia GRADE para classificar a certeza das evidências para cada estudo incluído. Resultados: Quatro estudos (dois ECRs com baixa certeza de evidência e dois não-ECRs com muito baixa certeza de evidência) foram incluídos. Três deles apresentaram modulação autonômica cardíaca durante e após a reabilitação: a razão LF/HF (low frequency/high frequency) foi maior durante a mobilização precoce; maior equilíbrio autonômico foi observado após prática de interação corpo-mente após AVC; e SDNN (desvio padrão dos intervalos R-R normais) foi significativamente menor em pacientes com AVC indicando menor adaptação autonômica cardíaca durante diferentes atividades. Conclusões: Não há conclusão definitivas sobre as principais repercussões cardíaca autonômica nos pacientes com AVC na reabilitação, embora todas as intervenções foram seguras para os pacientes após AVC.

Telemedicina en prevención secundaria y rehabilitación del accidente cerebrovascular durante la pandemia por COVID-19 / Telemedicine in secondary prevention and rehabilitation of stroke during the COVID-19 pandemic

Resumen La pandemia COVID-19 limitó el acceso de los pacientes post accidente cerebro vascular a los controles de seguimiento médico y a la rehabilitación, por lo cual decidimos incorporar herramientas tecnológicas gratuitas y accesibles para su continuación. Realizamos seguimiento remoto a 32 pacientes dados de alta en los primeros tres meses del período de aislamiento social preventivo obligatorio con el objetivo de continuar controles médicos, rehabilitación física y fonoaudiológica. El 100% adhirió al tratamiento médico y al auto-monitoreo de factores de riesgo; detectamos en forma temprana la interrupción de las terapias de rehabilita ción y mantuvimos la adherencia por medio de tele-rehabilitación. Los 32 pacientes mostraron disponibilidad para seguir con esta modalidad de atención, permitiendo continuar el seguimiento médico y supervisar la rehabilitación con la colaboración de las familias. Es una metodología accesible y de bajo costo que podría ser replicada y utilizada en instituciones de salud que traten enfermedades neurovasculares.

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in limited access of post-stroke patients to their usual medical follow-up and rehabilitation. To continue these activities, we adopted a technology that is free and has universal access. We remotely followed 32 patients after discharge from the stroke unit during the mandatory lock-down. This allowed to continue with medical controls, physical therapy and speech pathology treatments. All patients fully complied with medical treatment and self-monitoring of vascular risk factors. Early discontinuation of rehabilitation therapies was identified and immediately compensated with tele-rehabilitation. All expressed their willingness to continue with this treatment modality. This strategy was successful to effectively continue medical follow-up and rehabilitation supervision with the collaboration of families, is an accessible and low-cost technology that could be replicated and used in health institutions that treat neurovascular diseases.

Functional outcomes among stroke patients in Alagoas, Brazil: observational study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Stroke is the principal cause of disability around the world and the ensuing functional dependence (FD) can be correlated with different factors. OBJECTIVE: To determine how demographic factors and clinical characteristics after stroke distinguish patients who achieve functional independence from those who do not. DESIGN AND SETTING: Observational study at specialized neurovascular clinic in Alagoas, Brazil. METHODS: FD was classified according to the modified Rankin scale (mRs): 0 to 2 points were classified as independent (FD-), and 3 to 5 points were classified as dependent (FD+). Logistic regression analysis included age, sedentary lifestyle, the Center for Epidemiological Studies - Depression Scale (CES-D) and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). The Mann-Whitney test and χ2 test were used to compare groups. RESULTS: We included 190 stroke patients with a mean age of 60.02 ± 14.22 years. We found that 34.8% of the patients were classified as FD+. Lower NIHSS and CES-D scores were more associated with achieving functional independence. Most of the patients had access to physical therapy, and the mean duration of rehabilitation therapy was 65.2 minutes per week. Females had higher prevalence of depressive symptoms (P = 0.005) and rehabilitation time was shorter for hemorrhagic stroke (P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: We found a FD rate four times greater than in another Brazilian study. Lower stroke severity and fewer depressive symptoms were associated with achieving functional independence. Less than half of the patients were referred to a rehabilitation service at hospital discharge and few had access to multidisciplinary treatment.

Eficacia de los cuidados de enfermería en la rehabilitación de pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular / Nursing Care Efficacy Concerning the Rehabilitation of Patients with Cerebrovascular Disease

Introducción: La enfermedad cerebrovascular es una de las causas más comunes de muerte y representa un problema de salud pública importante. Las consecuencias individuales son sustanciales, por lo que muchos pacientes afectados necesitan cuidados de enfermería. Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia de los cuidados de enfermería en la rehabilitación de pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular. Métodos: Estudio cuasiexperimental con pre y postest, en el centro de rehabilitación ambulatorio privado de Santa Elena, Ecuador, durante 2019. Universo de 75 pacientes que asisten al centro de rehabilitación, de 151 egresados del Hospital General con diagnóstico de enfermedad cerebrovascular. Se evaluaron las características generales y clínicas de la enfermedad y la duración de la rehabilitación. Se utilizó la escala de Utrecht y estadística descriptiva X2 para comparaciones entre los sexos, localización y tipo de enfermedad. Las diferencias se consideraron estadísticamente significativas con una p ≤ 0.05. Resultados: La edad promedio fue de 60,3 +/- 9,8 años. La mayoría de los pacientes resultaron ser del sexo masculino (68 por ciento), con localización de la enfermedad cerebrovascular del lado izquierdo (46,6 por ciento) y de tipo isquémico (65,3 por ciento). Se observó que la independencia funcional, la movilidad y el autocuidado presentaron diferencias significativas al comparar los valores al final de las intervenciones con los valores iniciales (p < 0,05). También se observó un aumento significativo en la función cognitiva, fatiga y estado de ánimo, existiendo modificaciones en los puntajes (p < 0,05). Conclusión: Los cuidados de enfermería son eficaces en la rehabilitación de pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular(AU)

Introduction: Cerebrovascular disease is one of the commonest causes of death and represents an important public health concern. Individual consequences are substantial, a reason why many affected patients require nursing care. Objective: To assess nursing care efficacy concerning the rehabilitation of patients with cerebrovascular disease. Methods: Quasiexperimental study, with pre- and post-test, carried out in the private ambulatory rehabilitation center of Santa Elena, Ecuador, during 2019. The universe was made up of 75 patients attending the rehabilitation center, out of 151 patients discharged from the General Hospital with a diagnosis of cerebrovascular disease. The general and clinical characteristics of the disease and the length of rehabilitation were assessed. The Utrecht scale and descriptive statistics, chi-square, were used for comparisons between sexes, location and type of disease. The differences were considered statistically significant with P ≤ 0.05. Results: The average age was 60.3±9.8 years. Most of the patients were male (68 percent), with location of cerebrovascular disease on the left side (46.6 percent) and of ischemic type (65.3 percent). It was observed that functional independence, mobility and self-care presented significant differences when comparing the values at the end of the interventions with the initial values (P < 0.05). A significant increase in cognitive function, fatigue and mood was also observed, with changes in the scores (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Nursing cares are effective in the rehabilitation of patients with cerebrovascular disease(AU)

Efeitos da utilização da realidade virtual não imersiva na reabilitação de membro superior de pacientes acometidos por AVC em um hospital público de Porto Alegre / Non-immersive virtual reality effects on upper limb rehabilitation of patients with stroke in a public hospital in Porto Alegre

O presente estudo teve por objetivo relatar os efeitos do uso da realidade virtual não imersiva através de um jogo criado para a reabilitação de membro superior pós AVC. O mesmo foi aplicado com quatro pacientes na Unidade de Cuidados Especiais do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, sendo realizado duas vezes ao dia durante a semana e uma vez ao dia nos finais de semana, desde a avaliação ao momento da alta hospitalar. Foi realizado a avaliação inicial e final da escala de Rankin modificada e selecionou-se as jogadas inicial e final para a verificação dos resultados. A análise dos dados foi realizada através de estatística descritiva. Os resultados demonstraram uma diminuição do tempo de execução do jogo com aumento da pontuação alcançada durante os desafios na maioria dos pacientes. Entende-se que jogos sérios podem ser utilizados como complemento na reabilitação pós-AVC. (AU)

The present study aimed to report the effects of using a non-immersive virtual reality game on patients undergoing upper limb rehabilitation after stroke. The intervention was administered to 4 patients in the Special Care Unit at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre; it was performed twice a day during the week and once a day on weekends, from baseline to discharge. The initial and final evaluations were conducted using the modified Rankin scale, and the initial and final moves were selected to check the results. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. The results showed a decrease in game execution time with an increase in the score achieved during the challenges in most patients. It is believed that serious games can be used as an additional tool in post-stroke rehabilitation. (AU)

Cuidado de si: representações sociais de cuidadores familiares de pacientes com AVC / Caring for oneself: social representations of stroke patients' family caregivers / Cuidado de sí mismos: representaciones sociales de los cuidadores de pacientes con familiares accidente cerebrovascular

Objetivo: Analisar as representações sociais de cuidadores familiares de pacientes acometidos por AVC, sobre o cuidado de si. Método: Estudo descritivo, no qual foi utilizado como aporte teórico as representações sociais. Foram investigados 20 cuidadores que frequentavam duas clinicas especializadas em Belém do Pará. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e organizados pela técnica de análise temática indutiva. Resultados:O cuidado de si foi representado pelos cuidadores como de difícil agregação às suas atividades de cuidar do adoecido pelo AVC devido à sobrecarga de trabalho, a qual gerou estresse e frustração. Alguns cuidadores conseguiram transformar esse estresse em uma representação pertencente a complexidade da sua vivência e da realidade do cuidado. Conclusão:Foi possível acessar o seu imaginário social e consequentemente a produção de significados atrelados as ações dos cuidadores, comportamentos e componentes cognitivos envolvidos na realidade do cuidar

Objective:The study's main goal has been to investigate the social representations of stroke patients' family caregivers by focusing on self-care. Methods: It is a descriptive study, which used the theoretical approach of social representations. There were investigated 20 caregivers who attended two specialized clinics in Belém city, Pará State, Brazil. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and processed by the inductive thematic analysis technique. Results: Self-care was represented by caregivers as difficult to combine to their activities of caring for the person suffering from stroke due to work overload, which generated stress and frustration. Some caregivers were able to transform this stress into a representation belonging to a complexity of their experience and the care reality. Conclusion: It was possible to access their social imagery and, consequently, the production of linked meanings as caregivers' actions, behaviors and cognitive components involved in the care reality

Objetivo: Analizar las representaciones sociales de los cuidadores de pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular de la familia en el auto cuidado.Método: Estudio descriptivo, que se utilizó como las representaciones sociales teóricas. Investigaron 20 cuidadores que asisten a dos clínicas especializadas en Belem. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de entrevistas semi-estructuradas y organizadas por la técnica de análisis temático inductivo. Resultados: El cuidado de sí estuvo representada por los cuidadores como difíciles de agregar sus actividades para atender a los enfermos por accidente cerebrovascular debido a la sobrecarga de trabajo, lo que causó el estrés y la frustración. Algunos cuidadores fueron capaces de convertir ese estrés en una representación que pertenece a la complejidad de su experiencia y la realidad cuidado. Conclusión: Fue posible acceder a los imaginarios sociales y por lo tanto la producción de significados vinculado las acciones de los cuidadores, el comportamiento y los componentes cognitivos implicados en la realidad de la atención

What are the barriers to participation in a neuromodulation pilot trial for aphasia after stroke? / Quais são as barreiras para a participação em estudo piloto de neuromodulação para afasia após acidente vascular cerebral?

ABSTRACT Purpose Aphasia is a common and debilitating manifestation of stroke. Transcranial electrical stimulation uses low-intensity electric currents to induce changes in neuronal activity. Recent evidence suggests that noninvasive techniques can be a valuable rehabilitation tool for patients with aphasia. However, it is difficult to recruit patients with aphasia for trials, and the reasons for this are not well understood. This study aimed to elucidate the main difficulties involved in patient's recruitment and inclusion in a randomized clinical study of neuromodulation in aphasia. Methods We evaluated the reasons for the exclusion of patients in a pilot, randomized, double-blinded clinical trial in which patients diagnosed with motor aphasia after stroke were recruited from March to November 2018. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results Only 12.9% (4) of patients with ischemic stroke were included in the clinical trial. A total of 87.1% (27) of the 31 recruited patients were excluded for various reasons including: sensory aphasia (32.2%), dysarthria (25.8%), spontaneous clinical recovery (16.1%), previous stroke (6.4%), and death or mutism (3.2%). Conclusion The presence of other types of aphasia, dysarthria, spontaneous recovery, deaths, and mutism were barriers to recruiting patients evidenced in this neuromodulation study.

RESUMO Objetivo A afasia é uma manifestação comum e debilitante do acidente vascular cerebral (AVC). A estimulação elétrica transcraniana por corrente contínua oferece uma corrente elétrica de baixa intensidade que induz alterações na atividade neuronal e evidências recentes sugerem que técnicas não invasivas podem servir como uma ferramenta benéfica para a reabilitação de pacientes afásicos. No entanto, é muito difícil recrutar esses pacientes para estudos clínicos e as razões não são claras. O objetivo do estudo foi identificar as principais dificuldades envolvidas no recrutamento e inclusão de pacientes em ensaio clínico piloto randomizado sobre neuromodulação em pacientes com afasia. Método Foram avaliadas as razões para a exclusão e não inclusão de pacientes em um ensaio clínico piloto, randomizado, duplo-cego no qual foram incluídos pacientes diagnosticados com afasia motora após AVC no período de março a novembro de 2018. Análise estatística descritiva foi realizada. Resultados Apenas 12,9% (4) dos pacientes com AVC isquêmico foram incluídos no estudo. Um total de 87,1% (27) dos 31 pacientes recrutados foram excluídos por apresentarem afasia sensorial (32,2%), disartria (25,8%), recuperação clínica espontânea (16,1%), AVC prévio (6,4%) e óbito ou mutismo (3,2%). Conclusão A presença de outros tipos de afasia, disartria, recuperação espontânea, óbitos e mutismo foram as principais barreiras ao recrutamento de pacientes evidenciadas nesse estudo de neuromodulação.

Intervención integral en el ictus / Comprehensive intervention in stroke

Introducción: se mantiene el debate sobre qué tipos de intervenciones para la recuperación del ictus ofrecen mejores resultados para el paciente. Objetivo: evaluar el efecto de una intervención integral durante seis meses sobre la recuperación funcional en pacientes con ictus. Métodos: la muestra estuvo compuesta por 42 participantes con ictus: un grupo experimental (N = 22) con una media de edad de 52,68 años (DE = 14,39) que recibió una intervención integral, intensiva y multidisciplinar, y un grupo control (N = 20) con una media de edad de 56,20 años (DE = 14,82) que no recibió este tipo de intervención. Se valoraron los siguiente índices de severidad del ictus: Escala de Coma de Glasgow, Escala Canadiense, estancia en Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, signos de enclavamiento uncal, signos de hipertensión endocraneal, volumen del hematoma/área isquémica, desplazamiento de línea media, necesidad de cirugía y tiempo total de hospitalización. Ambos grupos eran equivalentes en estos índices de gravedad. El grado de funcionalidad fue medido con la aplicación de la escala Functional Independence Measure and Functional Assessment Measure. Esta prueba se aplicó al inicio de la intervención y 6 meses después. Resultados: se observó una evolución positiva en ambos grupos en todas las áreas de la escala. La intervención integral y un menor tiempo total de hospitalización se relacionaron con una mejor recuperación funcional en el ictus. Conclusiones: se sugiere la necesidad de realizar estrategias de rehabilitación integral en los pacientes con ictus(AU)

Introduction: debate is currently underway about what types of stroke recovery interventions are more beneficial for patients. Objective: evaluate the effect of a six-month comprehensive intervention on the functional recovery of stroke patients. Methods: the study sample was 42 stroke patients: an experimental group (N = 22), mean age 52.68 years (SD = 14.39), who received a comprehensive intensive multidisciplinary intervention, and a control group (N = 20), mean age 56.20 years (SD = 14.82), who did not receive this type of intervention. The following stroke severity indices were applied: Glasgow Coma Scale, Canadian Scale, intensive care unit stay, uncal latching signs, endocranial hypertension signs, hematoma volume / ischemic area, midline displacement, need for surgery and total hospital stay time. These severity indices were similar in the two groups. Degree of functionality was gauged with the scales Functional Independence Measure and Functional Assessment Measure. This test was applied at the start of the intervention and 6 months later. Results: both groups had a positive evolution in all the areas of the scale. The comprehensive intervention and a shorter total hospital stay were associated to better functional recovery from stroke. Conclusions: the need is suggested to implement comprehensive rehabilitation strategies in stroke patients(AU)

The Xbox/Kinect use in poststroke rehabilitation settings: a systematic review / A utilização do Xbox/Kinect na reabilitação pós-acidente vascular cerebral: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Background: Active games based on virtual reality have been widely used in the rehabilitation of many clinical conditions. However, studies on the use of Xbox/Kinect are rare, and technology application in stroke treatment is not clear yet. Objective: To verify the outcomes (O) analyzed in randomized controlled trials (C; S) that investigated the use of Xbox/Kinect (I) in patients with stroke (P). Methods: This is a systematic literature review that meets PRISMA standards and the eligibility criteria according to the PICOS strategy. The search procedure was performed by two researchers. The research strategy was repeated in case of divergence. Effect size was calculated by Cohen's formula and Hopkins rank. The risk of individual bias was assessed using PEDro Score and Higgins Classification. Results: The main outcomes were postural balance and activities of daily living, with four studies addressing these variables. However, only one study showed the effect of Xbox/Kinect intervention on balance as large, as in two other studies evaluating manual dexterity and depression, respectively. Conclusion: The greater use of Xbox/Kinect in treating patients after stroke is in recovery of balance and motor function, and the evidence support its application. These findings enable the use of virtual reality technology through Xbox/Kinect in rehabilitation programs, focusing on postural balance and motor skills. However, conclusive results are still not possible. Therefore, caution in the use of this technology is required.

RESUMO Introdução: Jogos ativos baseados em realidade virtual têm sido amplamente utilizados na reabilitação de muitas condições clínicas. No entanto, estudos sobre a utilização do Xbox/Kinect são raros, e não está clara a aplicabilidade da tecnologia no tratamento de pacientes que tiveram acidente vascular cerebral. Objetivo: Verificar os desfechos (O) analisados em ensaios clínicos randomizados e controlados (C; S), que investigaram a utilização do Xbox/Kinect (I) em pacientes que tiveram acidente vascular cerebral (P). Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática da literatura que atende aos padrões do PRISMA e aos critérios de elegibilidade, de acordo com a estratégia PICOS. O procedimento de busca foi realizado por dois pesquisadores e, em caso de divergência, a estratégia de busca foi repetida. O tamanho do efeito foi calculado por meio da fórmula de Cohen e da escala de Hopkins. O risco de viés individual foi analisado utilizando o escore PEDro e a classificação de Higgins. Resultados: Os principais desfechos foram o equilíbrio postural e as atividades de vida diária, com quatro estudos abordando essas variáveis. No entanto, apenas um estudo mostrou o efeito da intervenção com Xbox/Kinect sobre o equilíbrio como sendo grande, assim como em dois outros artigos que avaliaram destreza manual e depressão, respectivamente. Conclusão: A utilização mais comum do Xbox/Kinect no tratamento de pacientes que tiveram acidente vascular cerebral acontece na recuperação do equilíbrio e da função motora, e as evidências apoiam o seu uso. Esses achados permitem o uso da tecnologia de realidade virtual por meio do Xbox/Kinect em programas de reabilitação, com foco no equilíbrio postural e nas habilidades motoras. Porém, resultados conclusivos ainda não são possíveis, o que exige cautela no uso dessa tecnologia.

Rehabilitación multidisciplinaria para pacientes adultos con accidente cerebrovascular / Multidisciplinary rehabilitation for adult patients with stroke

Se estima que dos tercios de las personas que han sufrido un accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) tienen secuelas que condicionan su calidad de vida. La rehabilitación del ACV es un proceso complejo, que requiere de un equipo multidisciplinario de profesionales especializados (médicos, kinesiólogos, enfermeros, terapistas ocupacionales, fonoaudiólogos, neuropsicólogos y nutricionistas). Actualmente, las prácticas realizadas en rehabilitación son consecuencia de la combinación de evidencia y consenso, siendo la mayoría aportadas a través de guías internacionales de rehabilitación en ACV. El objetivo de esta revisión es ajustar las recomendaciones internacionales sobre rehabilitación a lo aplicado a la práctica diaria, a fin de unificar criterios en las recomendaciones y reducir la variabilidad de las prácticas empleadas. En este trabajo, se realizó una revisión de la literatura sobre las guías de rehabilitación en ACV realizadas en los últimos 10 años y cada apartado fue supervisado por distintos profesionales especializados en dichas áreas. Se analizaron los tiempos y organización necesaria para desarrollarla, las recomendaciones para la rehabilitación motora, cognitiva y visual, el tratamiento de la disfagia y nutrición, de las comorbilidades (trombosis venosa, úlceras cutáneas, dolor, trastornos psiquiátricos, osteoporosis) y las tareas necesarias para favorecer el retorno a las actividades de la vida diaria.

It is estimated that two thirds of people who have suffered a stroke have sequels that condition their quality of life. The rehabilitation of the stroke is a complex process, which requires the multidisciplinary approach of specialized professionals (doctors, kinesiologists, nurses, occupational therapists, phonoaudiologists, neuropsychologists and nutritionists). Currently, the practices carried out are a consequence of the combination of evidence and consensus, most of them through international stroke rehabilitation guides. The objective of this review is to adjust the international recommendations on stroke rehabilitation to what is applied to daily practice, in order to unify the criteria of the recommendations and to reduce the variability of the practices carried out. This work is a review of the literature on stroke rehabilitation guides developed in the last 10 years. Each section was supervised by different professionals specialized in these areas. We analyze the time and organization necessary to develop rehabilitation, recommendations for motor, cognitive and visual rehabilitation, the management of dysphagia and nutrition, the approach of comorbidities (venous thrombosis, skin ulcers, pain, psychiatric disorders and osteoporosis) and the necessary tasks to favor the return to the activities of daily life.

Development of a three-channel automatic climbing training system for rat rehabilitation after ischemic stroke

This paper reports the development of a three-channel automatic speed-matching climbing training system that could train three rats at the same time for rehabilitation after an ischemic stroke. An infrared (IR) remote sensor was installed at the end of each channel to monitor the real-time position of a climbing rat. This research was carried out in five stages: i) system design; ii) hardware circuit; iii) running speed control; iv) functional testing; and v) verification using an animal model of cerebral stroke. The rehabilitated group significantly outperformed the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) sedentary group in the rota-rod and inclined plate tests 21 days after a stroke. The rehabilitated group also had a cerebral infarction volume of 28.34±19.4%, far below 56.81±18.12% of the MCAo group 28 days after the stroke, validating the effectiveness of this training platform for stroke rehabilitation. The running speed of the climbing rehabilitation training platform was designed to adapt to the physical conditions of subjects, and overtraining injuries can be completely prevented accordingly.

Valoración de la efectividad de un protocolo de estimulación sensorial de la mano hemiparésica para la rehabilitación del control postural en pacientes con ictus crónico. Estudio piloto / Evaluation of the effectiveness of a hemiparesis hand sensory stimulation protocol for postural control rehabilitation in patients with chronic stroke. Pilot study

Introducción. Uno de los objetivos principales de la neurorrehablitación en pacientes con ictus es el reentrenamiento del equilibrio. Se ha estudiado la influencia de la función motora del miembro superior en el control postural, pero desconocemos si la estimulación somatosensorial de la mano afecta puede influirlo. Objetivo. Estudiar si un protocolo de estimulación somatosensorial de la mano afecta, podía modificar, en pacientes con ictus crónico, la posición del centro de masa y su desplazamiento en bipedestación. Pacientes y métodos. 5 pacientes con ictus crónico con capacidad de bipedestación autónoma completaron este estudio piloto prospectivo y longitudinal, con valoración pretratamiento, post-primer tratamiento y post-intervención final. La intervención consistió en estimulación somatosensorial de la mano afecta, de 20 minutos de duración durante 5 días consecutivos. Se midieron Timed Up and GO Test (TUG), Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA), Limits Of Stability (LOS) y Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (mCTSIB). Resultados. Se observaron cambios estadísticamente significativos en TUG (p=0,043), en mCTSIB en los máximos desplazamientos del centro de presiones para la condición ojos abiertos (p=0,043) y en LOS para el tiempo de reacción en la diagonal posterior afecta(p꞊0,043), máximas excursiones en las diagonales anterior menos afecta, afecta y posterior afecta (p=0,043) y el control direccional en la anterior menos afecta y anterior afecta. Conclusiones. La estimulación somatosensensorial propuesta puede ser positiva para el reentrenamiento del equilibrio a la luz de los resultados obtenidos. Son necesarias investigaciones a este nivel a gran escala y a largo plazo con muestras más grandes.

Introduction. One of the main objectives of neurorehablitation in stroke patients is balance retraining. The influence of upper limb motor function on postural control has been studied, but we do not know whether somatosensory stimulation of the affected hand can influence it. Objective. To study whether a protocol of somatosensory stimulation of the affected hand could modify, in patients with chronic stroke, the position of the center of mass and its displacement in standing. Patients and methods. Five patients with chronic stroke who were able to stand independently completed this prospective and longitudinal pilot study, with pre-treatment, post-first treatment and final post-intervention assessment. The intervention consisted of somatosensory stimulation of the affected hand, lasting 20 minutes for 5 consecutive days. Timed Up and GO Test (TUG), Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA), Limits Of Stability (LOS) and Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (mCTSIB) were measured. Results. Statistically significant changes were observed in TUG (p=0.043), in mCTSIB for maximum center of pressures displacements for the eyes open condition (p=0.043) and in LOS for reaction time in the posterior diagonal affect(p꞊0.043), maximum excursions in the anterior least affect, affect and posterior affect diagonals (p=0.043) and directional control in the anterior least affect and anterior affect. Conclusions. The proposed somatosensory stimulation may be positive for balance retraining in light of the results obtained. Large-scale and long-term investigations at this level with larger samples are necessary.