Edukasi Latihan Isometrik (Menggenggam Bola Karet) untuk Meningkatkan Kekuatan Otot Ekstremitas Atas pada Penderita Stroke

Abstract

Stroke is a leading cause of disability, reducing neuromuscular function and impeding daily activities. This Community Service program aims to improve the motor skills and muscle strength of upper extremity patients with ischemic stroke in Dukuhwaluh Village through isometric exercises involving holding a rubber ball. The program involved 12 participants who underwent education, demonstrations, and independent practice over seven days, with evaluations at the beginning and end of the program. The results showed significant improvements in the participants' motor skills and muscle strength. At the beginning of the intervention, the Thumb Extend movement was the most difficult movement, with a 92% failure rate, followed by the Side Squeeze movement at 67%. After seven days of training, participants' abilities gradually improved, as evidenced by a 50% decrease in the number of failures in the Side Squeeze movement. In terms of physical strength, muscle measurements showed an average increase from 19.2 kg in the pre-test to 20.3 kg in the post-test (a difference of 1.1 kg). Furthermore, the proportion of participants achieving the 24.5–32.4 kg strength category increased to 50%. Participant compliance was good, with the majority performing the exercises independently twice daily for 15 minutes. Overall, isometric exercises involving gripping a rubber ball have been shown to be effective in improving muscle strength and fine motor skills in stroke survivors. This intervention is an easy and inexpensive solution for survivors to implement independently at home.