Effectiveness of LiuZiJue Qigong versus traditional core stability training for poststroke patients complicated with abnormal trunk postural control: study protocol for a single-center randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Trunk function in stroke patients with hemiplegia is associated with respiration and core stability and is also found to be associated with balance and postural control and activities of daily living. LiuZiJue Qigong (LQG) is a traditional Chinese method of fitness based on breath pronunciation. The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical efficacy of LQG and traditional core stability training in the treatment of stroke patients with abnormal trunk posture. This protocol is written according to the SPIRIT 2013 statement. Methods/design: This study is a single-center randomized controlled trial in which 160 stroke patients are randomly divided into a study group and a control group. Patients in the study group will receive LQG combined with conventional rehabilitation therapy, and patients in the control group will receive traditional core stability training combined with conventional rehabilitation therapy. All treatments will be done for 45 min/day, five times per week, for 2 weeks. The primary outcome (Trunk Impairment Scale) and secondary outcomes (Berg Balance Scale, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Modified Barthel Index, Maximum Phonation Time, Dynamic and Static balance testing, and thickness and the mobile degrees of diaphragm) will be measured at baseline, 2 weeks, and the end of the rehabilitation course. Discussion: The aim purpose of this research study is to compare the clinical efficacy of LQG and traditional core stability exercise in the treatment of stroke patients with abnormal trunk posture.

Comparing the Effects of Short-Term Liuzijue Exercise and Core Stability Training on Balance Function in Patients Recovering From Stroke: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

“…It is worth noting that LQG pays more attention to the training of exhalation ability, which is more suitable for stroke patients who present with a more pronounced decline in expiratory function ( 45 ). The LQG is employed to emphasize the adverse abdominal breathing method, which also contributes to respiratory functions ( 10 – 18 , 20 , 21 , 23 – 29 , 32 – 38 , 42 , 44 – 46 ). Therefore, LQG can improve the respiratory function of patients after stroke, and the respiratory function is beneficial to the improvement of balance ability.…”

“…A MyLab color Doppler ultrasound diagnostic instrument with a probe frequency of 5-10 MHz was used to determine the thickness of the diaphragm and its mobility. Because the ultrasound image of the right diaphragm is clearer than the left, the right side was selected for uniform measurement by a specially trained physician ( 32 ). Diaphragm thickness was measured during quiet breath and deep breath ( Figure 4 ).…”

Effects of “Taking the Waist as the Axis” Therapy on trunk postural control disorder after stroke: A randomized controlled trial

“…The static balance abilities of sitting and standing were evaluated using the Prokin proprioception evaluation and training system (PK254P; TecnoBody, Italy). The operational details have been previously published ( Wang et al, 2020 ). The central of pressure (COP) trajectory (mm) and COP area (mm 2 ) in sitting and standing position were collected with eyes open and closed, with lower values indicating better balance.…”

Tai Chi, Qigong and the Treatment of Disease

“…Some studies have found that qigong exercises can improve the physical and mental state of patients who have had a stroke, could reduce the effects of sleep and mental disorders and improve muscle function [138][139][140][141].…”