NCT07143630

Abdominal Electrical Stimulation for Balance and Muscle Thickness in Stroke Patients

Effects of Abdominal Electrical Stimulation on Balance and Ultrasound-Measured Muscle Thickness in Stroke Patients: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trials

• Status: Active Not Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 2 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Başakşehir Çam & Sakura City Hospital · Other Government
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 65 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Stroke is a leading cause of balance impairment and trunk muscle weakness, which restricts independence in daily activities. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a safe rehabilitation method to activate muscles. This study will evaluate the effects of NMES applied to the abdominal muscles on balance and ultrasound-measured muscle thickness in stroke patients. The findings may provide evidence for new treatment strategies to enhance trunk function and improve quality of life after stroke.

Detailed description

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and frequently results in impaired balance and trunk muscle weakness, limiting independence in daily life. Abdominal muscles are essential for postural stability, and their weakness may adversely affect mobility and functional outcomes in stroke patients. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a safe rehabilitation method used to promote muscle contraction and improve strength. While NMES has shown positive effects on limb muscles, its impact on abdominal muscles and balance remains insufficiently studied. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, participants will be randomly allocated into two groups. The control group will perform core stabilization exercises, while the intervention group will receive core stabilization exercises combined with abdominal NMES. Balance will be assessed using validated clinical scales, and abdominal muscle thickness will be measured by ultrasound. The study aims to determine the additional effects of abdominal NMES on balance, trunk control, and functional recovery in stroke patients.

Conditions

• Stroke

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
DEVICE	Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation	NMES will be applied to the abdominal muscles using a multichannel stimulator. Each session will last approximately 20 minutes, administered 5 times per week for a total of 15 sessions, in addition to core stabilization exercise program performed with the same frequency.
BEHAVIORAL	Core Stabilization Exercises	Participants will perform a structured core stabilization exercise program. The program will be administered 5 times per week for a total of 15 sessions.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-08-28
• Primary completion: 2026-04-11
• Completion: 2026-04-11
• First posted: 2025-08-27
• Last updated: 2026-04-15

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)