Home-based Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation for Motor Function and Ambulation in Subacute Stroke: A Quasi-Experimental Pilot Study

Stroke causes a high burden of motor and functional disability. Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) demonstrates potential in enhancing motor recovery and ambulation, particularly given the pronounced sociocultural affinity of the Ambonese population for rhythmic elements. This study evaluated the effect of RAS therapy using the Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) on walking ability and motor function in subacute stroke patients.

This quasi-experimental study involved 30 subacute stroke patients at a referral hospital in Ambon, Indonesia. Participants were allocated into a control group (n=15) and an intervention group (n=15). The intervention group received home-based RGM therapy for one month, while the control group received standard care. Outcomes were measured using the Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) for walking ability and Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) for motor function. Data were analyzed utilizing Chi-square, Fisher's Exact, and binary logistic regression tests.

No statistically significant difference in FAC scores was observed between the two groups (p = 0.136). However, the intervention group demonstrated a highly significant improvement in extremity motor function compared to the control group (p = 0.035).

Multivariate analysis confirmed that the music intervention independently predicted motor improvement (aOR = 11.56). Furthermore, achieving a functional motor status emerged as the strongest predictor for attaining walking independence (aOR = 23.64).

RAS therapy utilizing the RGM significantly improves motor function, which serves as a crucial foundational mechanism for walking independence, although it did not directly translate to functional ambulation within the one-month intervention period. RGM shows potential as a supportive adjuvant approach in home-care rehabilitation, though further validation in larger trials is warranted.