Affiliations 

  • 1 Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
  • 2 Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II
Buletin Sains Kesihatan, 2021;5(1):21-29.
MyJurnal

Abstract

Circuit exercise therapy is being frequently used as a therapy option for stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation. However, the effectiveness of this therapy in improving post-stroke functionality remains limited. There is also a need to improvise the content of the existing circuit exercise therapy to further enhance the process of neuroplasticity towards the attainment of greater recovery. One strategy for this is to integrate the element of games into the exercise therapy to create a more enriched training environment during the exercise session. This study aimed to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of a game-based circuit exercise therapy among stroke survivors. This was a pilot experimental study involving 30 stroke patients at post-acute phase post-onset (mean age and standard deviation = 58.9 ± 6.6 years; mean Montreal Cognitive Assessment score = 23.4 ± 7.1) and conducted in a district of Kelantan, Malaysia. Simple random sampling method was used in recruiting the study participants. All participants undergone game-based circuit exercise therapy using a game board named “Checkercise” for 45 minutes, twice per week for 8 weeks. The feasibility of the therapy was measured in term of attrition rate, occurrence of adverse effects and feedbacks from the participants. While its effectiveness on post-stroke physical function were assessed with regards to improvement in functional stability and cardiovascular endurance, using Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) and 6-minute Walk Test, respectively. All data were analyzed using the paired samples t test, with the level of significance, p set at < 0.05. Study results shown low attrition rate, no apparent adverse effect, and positive feedbacks from the participants. Improvement in the participants’ mean score for DGI and 6-minute walk test by 7% and 23% respectively (p < 0.05), and medium effect size (Cohen’s d= 0.5 - 0.6) was obtained post-therapy. In conclusion, game-based circuit exercise therapy is feasible and beneficial for stroke survivors. The therapy can potentially be used as a therapy option for this population. A larger study is needed to confirm this study finding.