The effect of home exercise on the posture and mobility of people with HAM/TSP: a randomized clinical trial
Renata de Sousa Mota, Maíra Carvalho Macêdo, Sandra Corradini, Naiane Araújo Patrício, Abrahão Fontes Baptista, Kátia Nunes Sá
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Physical therapy has positive results in people with tropical spastic paraparesis (TSP). However, mobility and distance from rehabilitation centers limit the participation in outpatient programs. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of a home exercise program on the posture and functional mobility of people with TSP. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial comparing three groups of people who performed guided exercises from a guidebook for six months: supervised (SG), unsupervised (WG), and control (CG). Primary outcomes: postural angles (SAPO®) and functional mobility (TUG). SECONDARY OUTCOMES: gait parameters (CVMob®). RESULTS: The protocol described in the guidebook improved postural angles and functional mobility. There were also positive gait parameter effects (p<0.05). SG presented better responses than WG did, but both were preferable to CG. CONCLUSION: Home exercises oriented by a guidebook may benefit posture, functional mobility and gait parameters in people with TSP, and physiotherapist supervision can ensure better results.