Otago exercises plus desensitization to improve balance and reduce fear of falling after stroke
Combined Effects of Otago Exercises and Systematic Desensitization on Balance,Fall Risk and Basophobia Among Post Stroke Older Adults
NA · Riphah International University · NCT07063368
This trial will test whether combining Otago exercises with systematic desensitization helps improve balance, lower fall risk, and reduce fear of falling in older adults after stroke.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 51 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Sialkot, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07063368 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This single-center randomized controlled trial in Sialkot, Pakistan will enroll 51 sub-acute ischemic stroke survivors aged 40–70 and randomize them into three groups using a coin flip. Group A receives Otago exercises plus systematic desensitization alongside routine physical therapy, group B receives Otago exercises with routine physical therapy, and group C receives systematic desensitization with routine physical therapy. Interventions are delivered over a six-month period with outcomes including balance, fall risk, and basophobia (fear of falling) measured at baseline and follow-up. Participants are recruited by convenience sampling and must be able to walk with or without assistance and have a MoCA score between 18 and 24.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are ambulatory adults aged 40–70 with sub-acute ischemic stroke, no major cognitive impairment (MoCA 18–24), and able to follow exercise and desensitization instructions.
Not a fit: Patients with severe arthritis or joint injuries, major neurological or psychiatric disorders, severe visual or hearing impairments, or those unable to ambulate are unlikely to benefit from these interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve balance, reduce falls, and lessen fear of falling, helping post-stroke adults regain mobility and independence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous trials have shown the Otago Exercise Program reduces falls in older adults and behavioural desensitization can reduce fear of falling, but combining both specifically in post-stroke populations is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria : * Both male and female patients * 40 to 70 Years of age * sub-acute ischemic stroke * Ability to walk with or without a caregiver * No cognitive dysfunction that would hinder understanding of the instructions * MoCA score between 18-24 Exclusion Criteria : * Patients previous participation in studies similar to the present study. * Participants who have other medical conditions such as severe arthritis or joint injuries. * Participants who have a history of significant neurological or psychiatric disorders * Participants who have severe visual or hearing impairments * Participants who are currently participating in another clinical trial or research study
Where this trial is running
Sialkot, Punjab Province
- Allama Iqbal Memorial Teaching Hospiatl — Sialkot, Punjab Province, Pakistan (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hira Jabeen, PhD — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Sana Muzammil, MS-NMPT
- Email: sanamuzammilmughal33@gmail.com
- Phone: +923327143610
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Stroke, Fall Risk, Otago exercises, Balance, Systematic desensitization, Basophobia