Vol. 8, Issue 3, Part D (2022)

Abstract
Background: Stroke is defined as rapidly developed clinical signs of focal disturbance of cerebral function, lasting more than 24 hours or leads to death with no apparent cause other than of vascular origin. It is currently the most leading cause of death worldwide. Motor deficits are characterized by paralysis (hemiplegia) or weakness (hemiparesis) of limb/s. In maximum cases balance and gait impairments are persistent. Close kinematic chain exercises (CKC) emphasises the sequential movement of joints and require coordinated and sequential muscle activation patterns to control proper joint movement. CKC exercises have proven to be effective in improving balance.Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of Close Kinematic Chain exercises on lower limb functions using Lower Extremity Functional Scale.Methods: In this study, patients were randomly divided into two groups. Experimental group was given close kinematic chain (CKC) exercise and conventional group was given conventional exercises. 5 weeks of protocol was given to the patients in both the groups. Pre and post scores of Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) were recorded. Comparison was done between and within the groups.Result: Experimental group showed significant improvement in lower limb functions compared to conventional group. Conclusion: Close kinematic chain exercises are more effective in improving lower limb functions.