Impact of targeted trunk training on bed mobility in stroke patients

Background. Stroke usually results in unilateral motor deficits in the upper and lower extremities, but its impact on trunk muscles is bilateral due to their architecture. The muscles on one side rely on the stability of the other side. While most literature focuses on improving hemiplegic limb function, the trunk is often overlooked. Impaired trunk control affects bed mobility, which is one of the basic functions that must be achieved before progressing to other activities. Early rehabilitation plays a crucial role in maximizing neuroplasticity and spontaneous recovery, leading to better outcomes. Aim. To evaluate the impact of targeted trunk training on bed mobility in stroke patients. Methods. Forty acute hemiparetic stroke patients with impaired bed mobility (Motor Assessment Scale [MAS] supine to side-lying grade ≤ 3) were included in this study and assigned to either a control or interventional group. Both groups underwent conventional physiotherapy, but the interventional group received additional trunk training. Bed mobility was assessed before and after 10 days of intervention using MAS components 1 and 2 and STREAM (Stroke Rehabilitation Assessment of Movement) component 5. Results. Both groups showed significant improvement in bed mobility. However, the interventional group demonstrated much better improvement than the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Targeted trunk training significantly improved bed mobility compared to conventional physiotherapy in acute stroke patients.