Abstract
Background:
Physical therapy has positive results in people with tropical spastic paraparesis (TSP). However, mobility and distance from rehabilitation centers limit the participation in outpatient programs.
Objective:
To evaluate the impact of a home exercise program on the posture and functional mobility of people with TSP.
Methods:
A randomized controlled trial comparing three groups of people who performed guided exercises from a guidebook for six months: supervised (SG), unsupervised (WG), and control (CG). Primary outcomes: postural angles (SAPO®) and functional mobility (TUG). Secondary outcomes: gait parameters (CVMob®).
Results:
The protocol described in the guidebook improved postural angles and functional mobility. There were also positive gait parameter effects (p<0.05). SG presented better responses than WG did, but both were preferable to CG.
Conclusion:
Home exercises oriented by a guidebook may benefit posture, functional mobility and gait parameters in people with TSP, and physiotherapist supervision can ensure better results.
Keywords:
tropical spastic paraparesis; home exercise; posture; functional mobility; gait