Turkish Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 2021 , Vol 67 , Num 4

The effects of adapted physical exercise during rehabilitation in patients with traumatic brain injury

Romana Romanov 1 ,Ladislav Mesarič 1 ,Dušan Perić 1 ,Jasna Vešligaj Damiš 2 ,Yoana Petrova Filišič 2
1 Faculty of sport and tourism, Educons University, Novi Sad, Serbia
2 Rehabilitation Center “Naprej”, Maribor, Slovenia
DOI : 10.5606/tftrd.2021.6145 Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effects of adapted physical exercise on the level of muscular ability and attention process in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Patients and methods: Between September 2018 and November 2018, a total of 25 male patients with TBI (mean age: 41.1±9.7 years; range, 30 to 50 years) that occurred two years ago were included in this randomized-controlled study. The patients were divided into two groups as the experimental group (n=13) and the control group (n=12). The experimental group implemented a regular rehabilitation program and an additional program of adapted physical exercise. The control group implemented only a regular rehabilitation program (morning gymnastics and gymnastics for the brain). Motor and functional abilities were assessed by a Senior Fitness battery and Berg's balance scale. Attention process was assessed by a standardized d2 test.

Results: A significant improvement in physical abilities (strength, flexibility and balance) and attention process was observed in both groups (p<0.01). The improvement was greater in the experimental group (p<0.01).

Conclusion: Traumatic brain injury causes difficulties in the memory and executive functions of the body and impairs working ability. The short-term adapted physical exercise program can yield a positive change in working abilities of patients with TBI. Keywords : Attention process, balance, flexibility, physical therapy, strength, traumatic brain injury