The effect of Pilates training on Memory Quotient and upper and lower extremity functions in stroke patients

This study aims to investigate the efficiency of 8-weeks Pilates training on Memory Quotient and upper and lower extremity functions in stroke patients. A quasi-experimental study was conducted on 24 randomly selected stroke patients (with an average of 59.58±11.10) who referred to Isfahan Alzahra Hospital in 2010. The participants were assigned into the experimental (n=12) and control groups (n=12). Patients'' Memory Quotient was assessed applying Wechsler Memory Scale and their physical Functions was assessed applying Wolf motor Functioning and 30 second chair stand test prior to and after the 8-week treatment. The experimental group received an eight-week intervention (three sessions per week) and the control group did not receive any training and performed their daily activities. Repeated measures ANOVA showed significant differences in Memory Quotient (P=0.01) and lower body motor function (P=0.01) of the experimental group compared with their baseline performance and control group after 8 weeks of training. But despite the improvement observed in patients with upper body motor function there was no significant difference in the Wolf motor function test. Findings of this study show that selected Pilates training are effective in improving Memory Quotient and lower body motor function of stroke patients.