Background/Aims:
There is a paucity of effective poststroke rehabilitation interventions. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the POINTE program on physical performance in stroke survivors.
Methods:
Stroke survivors from Sengkang General Hospital were recruited into the POINTE programme from April 2022 till September 2023. The intensive exercise programme, comprised of cardiovascular, strength, balance and coordination training, had a total of 12 2-hr sessions, conducted 3x/week for four weeks. Inclusion criteria included (1)stroke history; (2)requiring an assistance level of at least modified independent, contact-guard assist or supervision with caregiver; (3)capable of committing to at least 2-3x/week over 4 weeks; (4)able to comprehend and follow two to three steps of instructions; (5)capable of sustaining a minimum of one hour of exercise; (6)and able to ambulate at least 15 metres. The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and 10-metre walk test (10mWT) were used to determine the participants’ physical activity level pre and post intervention.
Results:
55 stroke survivors completed the programme. Stroke survivors covered greater distance post intervention (334.43 ± 121.93m) compared to the baseline (268.18 ± 121.03m). This was a statically significant difference increase of -66.24 (95% CI, -82.87 to -49.62)m, p<0.05. Stroke survivors also had a faster walking velocity post intervention (0.97 ± 0.363m/s) as compared to the baseline (1.03 ± 1.41m/s). This was an improvement of 0.06 (95% CI, -0.30 to -0.41)m/s, p<0.05.
Conclusion:
The POINTE class may be effective in improving physical activity levels of young stroke survivors as seen in the 6MWT and 10mWT outcomes.