한국신경근육물리치료학회

This study aimed to investigate the effects of plantar fascia dynamic stretching on static and dynamic balance, and gait ability. Thirty chronic stroke patients (n=30) were selected and interventions were 3 rounds of plantar fascia dynamic stretching per day, 5 days a week, for 6 weeks. Each set comprised 10 repetitions. Open and closed eyes static balance ability, functional reach test (FRT), and 10 meter walking test (10WMT) were measured after 6 weeks of training. After 6 weeks of training, the plantar fascia stretching group showed significant improvements in all outcome measures compared with baseline (p<.05). Furthermore, closed eyes static balance ability, and dynamic balance ability, and gait ability showed greater improvement in the plantar fascia stretching group compared to the calf stretching group (p<.05). These results suggest that plantar fascia dynamic stretching reduces and improves static and dynamic balance, and gait disorders in patients with chronic stroke.