Model of attention and postural control impairments in chronic stroke survivors

Background & Aimes:. The purpose of the current study was to determine the effects of external and internal focus and also cognitive dual task on postural control of chronic stroke survivors while standing in terms of both postural sway measures and the neuromuscular regulation of balance (i.e. EMG of ankle muscles)Methods: Postural sway measures and ankle muscle activity of chronic stroke survivors and matched healthy subjects were assessed while standing on rigid and foam surfaces and several condition. Results: Stroke survivors, particularly HA-stroke participants, showed greater postural sway measures and enhanced co-contraction of ankle muscles compared with healthy subjects (P<۰.۰۰۱) and under internal focus and base condition. Conclusions: internal attentional focus exacerbates stroke-induced postural sway and postural instability, promoting improper neuromuscular control of posture, with increased co-contraction of ankle muscles.

Keywords:

Electromyography , Postural control , Stroke