Abstract: Objective To investigate the effects of balance training on balance function and walking ability of hemiplegic patients.Methods 42 hemiplegic patients were randomly divided into the balance training group and control group with 21 cases in each group. All patients of two groups were given conventional rehabilitation therapy. Patients in the balance training group were mainly trained for balance function. The balance function and walking ability were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Balance Test and Holden Walking Classification before and after training.Results There was no significant difference between two groups before training ( P>0.05). After training, the balance scores were significantly improved in the balance training group compared with control group ( P<0.05). All patients could not walk independently before training. After training, 71% patients in the balance training group (control group was 51%) could walk independently, and there was significant difference between two groups ( P<0.05).Conclusion Balance training has important effect to improve balance function and walking ability of patients with hemiplegia.

Key words: balance training, hemiplegia, walking ability