Feasibility of Ballistic Strength Training in Subacute Stroke: A Randomized, Controlled, Assessor-Blinded Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective: To establish the feasibility and effectiveness of a 6-week ballistic strength training protocol in people with stroke. Design: Randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded study. Setting: Subacute inpatient rehabilitation. Participants: Consecutively admitted inpatients with a primary diagnosis of first-ever stroke with lower limb weakness, functional ambulation category score of ≥3, and ability to walk ≥14 m were screened for eligibility to recruit 30 participants for randomization. Interventions: Participants were randomized to standard therapy or ballistic strength training 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Main Outcome Measures: The primary aim was to evaluate feasibility and outcomes..