Effect of foot position during sit-to-stand training on balance and upright mobility in patients with chronic stroke

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effect of foot position during sit-to-stand (STS) training on balance and upright mobility in patients with chronic stroke. Forty patients (29 men, 11 women) with chronic stroke participated in the study. Patients were randomly placed into two experimental groups with 20 patients in each group. Participants in Group A performed STS training with the affected foot position behind the unaffected foot (asymmetrical foot position), whereas Group B performed STS training with the affected foot position alongside the unaffected foot (symmetrical foot position). On comparing the mean difference values of STS performance, Berg balance scale score, and timed up-and-go test between the two groups, there was a significant difference at the end of Week 4 (p<0.05). In conclusion, asymmetrical foot position during STS training resulted in improved balance and upright mobility in patients with chronic stroke as compared to the symmetrical foot position.