Comparison of the relationship between ankle proprioception and balance, functionality, and quality of life in patients with chronic stroke

There is evidence that proprioceptive impairments in individuals who have had a stroke have negatively affect balance, physical performance and activities of daily living. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between ankle proprioception and balance, lower exremity functionality, quality of life in individuals with chronic stroke. The study included 30 individuals with ischemic stroke and 30 healthy individuals. The ankle proprioception in individuals with stroke was evaluated with an isokinetic dynamometer; balance was measured using the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest); lower extremity motor function were assessed with the Lower Extremity Motor Subscale of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment; activities of daily living was evaluated using the Barthel Index; and quality of life was assessed with the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QOL). All assessments were contucted once. The mean age of stroke patients was 60,70±9,57 years while that of the control group was 58,46±8,85 years. The proprioception of the unaffected ankle in the stroke group was better compared to the affected side. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups in all BESTest parameters (p<0,001). A weak negative correlation was found between the proprioception of the unaffected side in individuals with stroke and the scores of Biomechanical Constraints (r = -0,372, p = 0,043) and Stability in gait (r = -0,376, p = 0,041). Proprioceptive impairments of the ankle may be observed in individuals with stroke. Therefore, during the stroke rehabilitation process, proprioceptive functions of both sides, not just the affected limb, should be evaluated. Incorporating ankle-focused sensorimotor exercises and balance training into clinical rehabilitation programs may be recommended.