Effectiveness of Neurodevelopmental Therapy on Pelvic Alignment, Trunk Control, and Gait Parameters in Chronic Stroke Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a common neurological disorder that is exclusively due to vascular causes and is characterized by the quick onset of localized disturbance of brain function that results in death and disability. The pelvis is considered the key structure connecting the torso and the lower extremities. Hemiparesis results in pelvic instability, hence poor trunk and gait performance.
Methods: The study followed a single-blinded randomized controlled trial in which 28 patients, 10 males and 18 females, diagnosed with stroke were enrolled. Participants were randomly distributed into two groups. In which Group A was administered with both Neurodevelopmental and conventional therapy, and Group B received conventional therapy. Participants received the intervention 5 days each week for 4 weeks. Pelvic disparity was measured with a palpation meter, trunk control with the trunk impairment scale, and Gait parameters such as Cadence, Stride length, and Gait velocity were assessed before and after the treatment period.
Results: Showed that between the group and within the group, there was a statistically significant difference (P <0.05) in trunk control, pelvic disparity, and cadence among the experimental and the control group.
Conclusion: This study emphasizes the role of pelvic alignment, which has been relatively unexplored in prior research, despite its crucial contribution to gait and postural stability. Hence, addressing the pelvic alignment in stroke rehabilitation could enhance overall functional recovery, suggesting a broader scope for integrating pelvic control in future therapeutic approaches.