EFFECT OF WEIGHT BEARING EXERCISES ON SPASTICITY AND HEALTH RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH POST STROKE SPASTICITY

Abstract

Background
Stroke is one of the leading causes of neurological disability and is frequently associated with spasticity
due to upper motor neuron damage. Spasticity interferes with voluntary movement and significantly affects
functional independence and quality of life. Physiotherapy interventions are widely used to manage post
stroke spasticity. Weight bearing exercises are commonly incorporated in rehabilitation programs because
they stimulate proprioceptive input and improve neuromuscular control.
Objective
To evaluate the effect of weight bearing exercises on spasticity and health related quality of life in patients
with post stroke spasticity..
Methods
An experimental study was conducted on twenty five patients diagnosed with post stroke spasticity.
Participants were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All participants received a
structured weight bearing exercise program as part of their physiotherapy rehabilitation. The Modified
Ashworth Scale was used to measure spasticity and the Health Related Quality of Life questionnaire was
used to assess overall well-being. Pre treatment and post treatment assessments were performed and the
data were analyzed statistically.
Results
Following the intervention, the Modified Ashworth Scale scores showed a significant reduction indicating
improvement in muscle tone. HRQOL scores also demonstrated improvement, suggesting better functional
ability and quality of life among the participants. The results indicate that weight bearing exercises may be
effective in reducing spasticity and improving health related quality of life in stroke patients.
Conclusion
Weight bearing exercises appear to be an effective physiotherapy intervention for managing post stroke
spasticity and improving functional outcomes. Incorporating weight bearing activities into rehabilitation
programs may enhance recovery and promote independence in stroke survivors.