RESUMEN
Objective:To investigate the effect of body axis rotation combined with rhythmic breathing training on lower limb motor function and balance ability of stroke patients with hemiplegia. Methods:From June, 2018 to June, 2020, 50 patients with hemiplegia after stroke from Physical Therapy Department of Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine were divided into control group (n = 25) and experimental group (n = 25). Both groups accepted routine rehabilitation, while the experimental group accepted body axis rotation and rhythmic breathing training for core muscle strength in addition, for six weeks. The total training time was the same for both groups. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Lower Extremities (FMA-LE), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed 'Up & Go' Test (TUGT) and 10-meter walking speed (10MWS) before and after treatment. Results:The scores of FMA-LE and BBS, and 10MWS increased in both groups after treatment (|Z| > 4.375, P < 0.001), and increased more in the experimental group than in the control group (|Z| > 3.415, P < 0.01); while the time of TUGT decreased in both groups (Z = -4.372, P < 0.001), and decreased more in the experimental group than in the control group (Z = -2.804, P < 0.01). Conclusion:Body axis rotation combined with rhythmic breathing training for core muscle strength may promote the recovery of lower limb motor function and balance ability for stroke patients with hemiplegia.