Sensory retraining of the lower limb after acute stroke: a randomized controlled pilot trial.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of a sensory retraining protocol on sensation, postural control, and gait in acute stroke subjects.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled pilot trial.

SETTING

Inpatient rehabilitation hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-one subjects with sensory deficits in the feet, undergoing rehabilitation for stroke.

INTERVENTION

Sensory retraining of the more affected lower limb versus relaxation (sham intervention).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Light touch at the sole of the foot (Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments), proprioception (Distal Proprioception Test), postural control (Berg Balance Scale), and gait (timed, Iowa Level of Assistance Scale).

RESULTS

Significant improvements (P<.05) over time were found in light touch at 3 points of the feet and in postural control, timed gait, and walking aid. No significant time effects were observed in proprioception or amount of assistance required to walk. No significant differences were detected between groups in any of the outcome variables, apart from light touch at the first metatarsal. The study had poor power (13%) to detect group effects due to the small sample size.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this pilot study are unable to support or refute the routine use of sensory retraining of the lower limb for people during inpatient rehabilitation after stroke. Further research with a larger sample size is required.