Author(s): Anusmitha K Vijayan, Sreejisha PK and Riya Elsa Thomas

Abstract:
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain stops suddenly, causing brain damage. Balance and gait impairments are commonly complained of by post-stroke patients. This study investigates the effectiveness of Otago exercises in reducing fall risk in stroke survivors. A 60-year-old male patient presented to the outpatient department (OPD) with difficulty in standing with eyes closed and narrow base of support, tandem stance with eyes open and closed, single leg stance, and walking on heels and toes. The patient underwent four weeks of rehabilitation, attending 50-minute physiotherapy sessions for five days per week. The Tinetti POMA scale score increased by 7 points and the dynamic gait index by 5 points post-intervention. After the intervention, the patient could stand with eyes closed and a narrow base of support, stand on one foot, and walk on toes, and heels. This study concludes that Otago exercises can be beneficial for stroke patients in reducing fall risk and improving balance and gait.

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