Comparison of the Effects between Isokinetic and Isotonic Strength Training in Subacute Stroke Patients.

BACKGROUND: The goal of the study was to compare the effects of isokinetic and isotonic strengthening program on the changes of muscle strength, functional capacity, life quality, and inflammatory cytokines in hemiparetic patients within 6 months of stroke attack.

METHODS: Thirty-one participants were randomly assigned into either isotonic training group or isokinetic training group. Both training programs were carried out 5 days a week for a total of 4 weeks. Outcome measures included the peak isometric torque of knees at 90° flexion, the peak torque of knees extension and flexion at angular velocities 60°/s and 120°/s, Short Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey Questionnaire, Timed Up and Go test, and inflammatory cytokines including high sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α.

RESULTS: Seven patients were not able to complete the training program and were excluded from our study. The results from the remaining 24 patients showed that there were more peak torque, and SF-36 items significantly improved in the isokinetic training group compared with the isotonic group. The Timed Up and Go test and interleukin-6 were improved in both groups, but tumor necrosis factor-α was improved in only the isokinetic group. There were no significant differences between the improvements of the 2 groups except the isokinetic flexion torque at 60°/s and 120°/s.

CONCLUSIONS: Early strengthening exercise is important for subacute stroke patients, and isokinetic program, if accessible, can bring more significant benefits for them.