Balance Assessment, Smartphones, Stroke, Ischemic
Conditions
Keywords
Stroke, Balance, Berg balance scale, Rehabilitation, EncephaLog
Brief summary
This study investigated the test-retest reliability and construct validity of the i-TUG, standard TUG, and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) using the EncephaLog smartphone application in individuals with chronic ischemic stroke. A total of 49 participants were assessed in two sessions to evaluate test-retest reliability. Construct validity was analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients. Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) values were also calculated.
Detailed description
The study was conducted with 37 individuals diagnosed with chronic ischemic stroke. Participants were assessed using the i-TUG, TUG, BBS, and additional postural sway parameters collected via EncephaLog. Two test sessions were conducted to assess test-retest reliability. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to evaluate construct validity, and the Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) were also calculated. Inclusion Criteria: * voluntary participation, * a diagnosis of stroke, no involvement in any physiotherapy program for at least three months prior to the study, * age between 18 and 75 years, * the ability to walk independently Functional Ambulation Scale (FAS) score greater than 3, * the spasticity of the m. gastrocnemius was graded as 2 or less on the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Exclusion Criteria: * severe visual or cognitive impairments, * severe cardiovascular disease, or musculoskeletal conditions or skin disorders that affected the lower extremities.
Interventions
None listed
Sponsors
Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa
Study design
Observational model
OTHER
Time perspective
CROSS_SECTIONAL
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Days to 75 Days
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
voluntary participation, a diagnosis of stroke, no involvement in any physiotherapy program for at least three months prior to the study, age between 18 and 75 years, the ability to walk independently Functional Ambulation Scale (FAS) score greater than 3, and the spasticity of the m. gastrocnemius was graded as 2 or less on the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS).
Exclusion criteria
Participants were excluded if they had severe visual or cognitive impairments, severe cardiovascular disease, or musculoskeletal conditions or skin disorders that affected the lower extremities.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Instrumental Timed Up and Go Test (i-TUG) by EncephaLog | Day 1 and Day 7 | The EncephaLog is an FDA-cleared, smartphone-based application designed to assess dynamic balance and gait disorders in older adults and individuals with neurological or non-neurological conditions. The application uses the smartphone' built-in accelerometer and gyroscope to deliver reliable and valid kinematic assessments. |
| Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) | Day 1 and Day 7 | The TUG test is a commonly used and validated measure to assess balance and mobility. Initially developed for older adults, 29 it has since been widely adopted for neurological and pediatric populations. 30-32 The test requires the participant to rise from a chair, walk 3 meters, turn, return, and sit down. The time to complete the task is recorded. A score greater than 13.5 seconds indicates an increased risk of falling in elderly. |
| Berg Balance Scale (BBS) | Day 1 and Day 7 | The BBS consists of 14 items designed to assess postural control and fall risk in elderly individuals. 35 Tasks include sitting to standing, standing unsupported, transfers, turning, and stepping. Each item is scored from 0 to 4, and the total score ranges from 0 to 56. A score between 0-20 indicates high fall risk and need for assistive devices; 21-40 indicates moderate fall risk; and 41-56 indicates low fall risk with no need for assistive devices. |
Countries
Turkey (Türkiye)
Outcome results
None listed