Effects of Extra Training on the Ability of Stroke Survivors to Perform an Independent Sit‐to‐Stand: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose: Many elderly stroke survivors have difficulty standing up from a seated position. We sought in this study, therefore, to: (1) evaluate whether extra practice increases the likelihood of gaining independence in sit‐to‐stand (STS); (2) determine the number of repetitions required to achieve a safe, independent STS; (3) assess whether extra STS practice leads to greater patient satisfaction with their general health status and quality of life; and (4) evaluate whether extra STS practice results in fewer falls. Methods: Eligible rehabilitation participants were randomly assigned to a conventional or an extra STS practice group. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in age, gender, body mass index, time post‐stroke, length of stay, duration in study, and motor deficits between the two groups. The difference in the mean daily STS repetitions was significant, 10.6 (inter‐quartile range, 8.1‐16.5) for the conventional group vs. 14.9 (range, 12.2‐20.1) for the extra practice group, p=0.03. Sensitivity and specificity were high for the range of mean daily STS repetitions (11.0‐13.5). Extra STS practice resulted in 17 out of 25 stroke survivors (vs. 7/23 in the conventional group) standing up safely and consistently from a 16‐inch surface without using their hands (p = 0.02). Although extra STS practice did not result in fewer falls, those stroke survivors who were able to stand independently expressed greater satisfaction with their quality of life (p = 0.02) and physical mobility (p = 0.003). Conclusion: This study supports the importance of repetitive practice in improving STS performance.