Effects of deconstructed Tai Chi step training combined with conventional rehabilitation on lower limb function in brunnstrom stage III stroke patients: A randomized controlled trial

by Jinxin Chang, Pengcheng Qu, Yindong Li Objective To evaluate whether a deconstructed Tai Chi stepping protocol adapted for patients with Brunnstrom Stage III stroke, when combined with conventional rehabilitation, improves lower limb motor function, walking ability, and joint mobility compared with conventional rehabilitation plus limb synergy training. Methods In this assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial, 52 patients with subacute stroke (Brunnstrom Stage III, ≤ 6 months post-stroke) were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to an experimental group (conventional rehabilitation plus adapted Tai Chi stepping training) or a control group (conventional rehabilitation plus limb synergy training).

Both interventions were delivered 5 days per week for 8 weeks. Fifty participants completed the study and were included in the final per-protocol analysis (25 per group).

Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after intervention. The primary outcomes were the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Lower Extremity (FMA-LE) and Holden Walking Function Classification.

Secondary outcomes were hip, knee, and ankle range of motion (ROM). Results Both groups improved after treatment, with greater improvement observed in the experimental group.