The Effect of Shoulder Problems on Balance in Hemiplegic Patients

Hemiplegia is one of the most frequent clinical outcomes after stroke and is commonly accompanied by shoulder problems, which are a major cause of impaired biomechanics. Shoulder function plays a key role in transfers, maintaining postural stability during ambulation, and ensuring effective hand and self-care functions. Impaired shoulder biomechanics may cause a feeling of insecurity, abnormal gait disturbances, and balance deficits.

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of shoulder problems on balance in hemiplegic patients. Inclusion criteria were: first-ever diagnosis of stroke, Mini Mental State Examination score ≥24, voluntary participation, literacy, absence of visual impairment, and age between 40-75 years. Participants signed informed consent forms and completed a demographic data form including sex, age, height, weight, education level, medical and family history, smoking status, other comorbidities, affected side, and duration of hemiplegia.

Hemiplegic patients were divided into two groups: those with shoulder pain and those without. Shoulder pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Shoulder joint range of motion was measured with the Senso4Motion device. Balance performance was evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale and the Senso4Motion system. By comparing patients with and without shoulder pain, this study aims to clarify the impact of shoulder problems on post-stroke balance, thereby contributing to rehabilitation strategies and improving functional outcomes

Inclusion criteria

Voluntary participation with signed informed consent Ability to read and write Age between 40 and 80 years First-ever stroke diagnosis Stable vital signs

Exclusion criteria

Diagnosis of any neurological or psychiatric disorder other than stroke Presence of visual or speech impairments History of more than one stroke