Home-based action observation training improves walking performance, balance, and lower limb motor function in chronic stroke: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Stroke often impairs gait, balance, and motor functions. Action Observation Training (AOT), activating the mirror neuron system via goal-directed movement observation, may enhance motor recovery.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the effects of an individualized home-based AOT (HB-AOT) program, combined with conventional physiotherapy, on walking, balance, and lower limb motor function in individuals with chronic stroke.

METHODS

Thirty individuals with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to HB-AOT or control groups. Both received conventional physiotherapy, while the HB-AOT group additionally performed individualized HB-AOT sessions three times weekly for eight weeks. Walking performance, balance, and lower limb motor function were assessed using the 2-Minute Walk Test, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Fugl-Meyer Assessment - Lower Extremity (FMA-LE). Gait speed was derived from the 2-Minute Walk Test.

RESULTS

Both groups showed significant post-intervention improvements in gait speed, BBS, and FMA-LE scores (p < 0.05). The HB-AOT group achieved significantly greater gains in gait speed, BBS, and FMA-LE scores compared to controls (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Incorporating individualized HB-AOT with conventional therapy may enhance walking performance, balance, and lower limb motor recovery in chronic stroke, supporting its use as a complementary rehabilitation approach.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06501014.