Effects of Pedalo(®) training on balance and fall risk in stroke patients

[Purpose] This study sought to examine the effects of Pedalo(®) training on balance and fall risk in stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty-one subjects with stroke were recruited and randomly allocated into two groups: the Pedalo(®) group (n=15) and the Treadmill group (n=16). The Pedalo(®) group performed conventional physical therapy program with Pedalo(®) training for 30 minutes, five times a week, for 8 weeks, while the Treadmill group conducted conventional physical therapy programs and treadmill gait training for 30 minutes, five times a week, for 8 weeks. [Results] After intervention, both groups showed a significant improvement in balance. A significant greater balance improvement was found in the Pedalo(®) group compared to the Treadmill group. Also, a significant reduction in risk of fall was seen in both group but this reduction was not significantly different between the two groups. [Conclusion] Pedalo(®) training may be used to improve balance and reduce fall risk in stroke patients.