Balance training in amputees: Comparison of the outcome of two rehabilitation approaches

Introduction: Since the primary purpose of lower limb amputee rehabilitation is safe and functional ambulation, problems in postural stability have a negative effect on prosthetic rehabilitation. The study presented here was performed to research the effectiveness of two training procedures on the balance of below-knee amputees. Material and Methods: Forty amputees with a mean age of 40 years were participated in this study. Control and study groups were consisted from twenty amputees each. Amputees in the study group were treated with balancing activities using balance board and audio-visual stimulus, while strengthening, posture and parallel bar activities were given to control group as conventional approach. In balance assessments "Flamingo Balance Test" is used. Results: Finally an important difference was found between the pre and post treatment values of balance on single foot while eyes were opened and closed (p < 0.05) in favor of the study group. Conclusion: Consequently, it can be said that using balance board in balance training is an effective way of achieving adequate balance in amputees.