Effect of Arm Sling on Postural Stability in Stroke Patients

Abstract
Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and is the major cause of morbidity, particularly in the middle aged and elderly population. Despite some uncertainty about their efficacy and timing, arm slings are still the most preferred treatment modality for shoulder sub-luxation in stroke patients.
Aim of Study: This study was designed to determine the effect of arm sling on postural stability in stroke patients.
Patients and Method: This study was conducted on forty-five patients of both sexes (30 males and 15 females) with hemi paretic stroke (in the domain of carotid system). Their ages ranged from 45-60 years, the duration of stroke ranged from 6 to 18 months. They were assigned into one group (study group). All patients were assessed on biodex balance device. Data obtained from the study group under two condi-tions, without arm sling and with arm sling. Data of overall stability index, anteroposterior stability index and mediolateral stability index were statistically analyzed and compared between the two conditions.
Results: The results of the present study revealed that there was a statistically significant improvement in values of overall stability index in arm sling condition compared to without arm sling condition (p=0.0001)*. The mean difference between without and with arm sling conditions was 1.16 and the percent of change was 28.85%.
Conclusion: In view of the results of this study, it's possible to conclude that there was a beneficial effect of using arm sling on postural stability in stroke patients and it may play a role in stroke rehabilitation.