Strengthening of the scapula-stabilizing muscles and quality of life of individuals with hemiparesis

Abstract

Introduction: Muscular weakness has been described as directly responsible for the loss of function and quality of life (QOL) after stroke, justifying the resistive training during rehabilitation programs. Objective: To measure the effects of muscular strengthening on the capability of force generation and QOL of individuals with hemiparesis. Method: We conducted a quasi-experimental study, composed by stroke volunteers who participated in a 13-week program of muscular strengthening of the scapular stabilizers. The training effects on muscular strength were determined by the variation in ability to generate force and QOL was measured using SF-36. Descriptive, visual analysis and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) were considered. Results/Conclusions: Improvements in force generation were observed after the training period. Improvements were also observed in all domains related to the QOL, although few domains did not reach the MCID. The results demonstrated positive effects on muscular strength and QOL of individuals with stroke.