Effect of Lumbar Stabilization Exercises on the Balance Ability of Patients with Stroke: A Systematic Review

[Purpose] This study performed a systematic literature review of the ability of lumbar stabilization exercises (LSE) to improve the balance ability of stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] A systematic review was conducted of four databases. The papers retrieved were evaluated based on the following inclusion criteria: 1) design, a controlled clinical trial; 2) intervention, LSE; 3) outcome, change in balance ability; and 4) year of publication, 2000 to 2013. [Results] The findings of 6 papers were compared to determine the effects of lumbar stabilization exercises on stroke patients' balance abilities. The papers had methodological quality scores of 5-8 on the PEDro scale. [Conclusion] Lumbar stabilization exercises have a positive influence on stroke patients' balance abilities.