The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy

The Korean Society of Physical Therapy (대한물리치료학회)
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Effects of Respiratory Exercise on Balance and Walking in Chronic Stroke Patients

  • Jong-Hwi Park (Department of Medical Science, Graduate School, Daegu Haany University) ;
  • Jae-Hyo Park (Department of Physical Therapy, Daegu Haany University)
  • Received : 2025.09.22
  • Accepted : 2025.10.23
  • Published : 2025.10.31
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Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the effectiveness of respiratory exercises on the balance and walking of chronic stroke patients. Methods: Twenty-four participants were assigned randomly to an experimental group (n=12) or a control group (n=12). Both groups received standard neurological rehabilitation, while the experimental group also performed diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing exercises for 30 minutes per session, five times a week for four weeks. The static balance was evaluated using center-of-pressure (COP) sway measures-path length and mean velocity-using a Wii Balance Board. The dynamic balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and the walking ability was measured using the 10meter walk test (10MWT) and the 6minutes walking test (6MWT). The data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests at a significance level of α=0.05. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in the static balance (p<0.05). The experimental group also showed significant within-group improvements in the dynamic balance and walking speed (p<0.05). On the other hand, the between-group comparisons showed no significant differences in balance or walking outcomes (p>0.05), and the walking endurance did not change significantly. Conclusion: These findings suggest that a four-week respiratory exercise program can lead to within-group improvements in balance and walking speed in chronic stroke patients. Nevertheless, the lack of between-group differences and endurance improvements highlights the need for longer interventions and more structured exercise protocols to confirm the long-term effectiveness.

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References

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