FITT-Based Physiotherapy in Chronic Stroke: A Case Report on Functional Recovery

Aulia Farah Maharani; Umi Budi Rahayu; Salma Muzarroh

doi:10.24843/mifi.000001787

Authors

Aulia Farah Maharani Professional Physiotherapy Education Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Umi Budi Rahayu Professional Physiotherapy Education Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Salma Muzarroh Professional Physiotherapy Education Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/mifi.000001787

Keywords:

Stroke, Exercise Therapy, Physical Therapy Modalities, Spasticity, Postural Balance, Activities of Daily Living

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, frequently resulting in neuromuscular impairments such as muscle weakness, spasticity, balance deficits, and reduced functional independence. Structured physiotherapy interventions based on the FITT (Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type) principle are essential for optimizing rehabilitation outcomes.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a FITT-based physiotherapy program on pain, spasticity, muscle strength, balance, and functional independence in a patient with chronic stroke.

Methods: This prospective case report involved a 45-year-old female with chronic non-hemorrhagic stroke (1-year post-onset) presenting with left-sided hemiparesis. The intervention was conducted over 3 weeks, consisting of infrared therapy (10–15 minutes), passive–active range of motion exercises (10–15 repetitions), static stretching (10–15 seconds, 5 repetitions), functional strengthening (sit-to-stand), and balance training. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Verbal Rating Scale (VRS), Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Four Square Step Test (FSST), and Barthel Index.

Results: Pain decreased from 5 to 2 (−60%), spasticity reduced from MAS 2 to 1 (−50%), muscle strength improved from MMT grade 3 to 4 (+33%), FSST time improved from 22 to 15 seconds (−31.8%), and the Barthel Index increased from 60 to 80 (+33.3%).

Conclusion: A structured FITT-based physiotherapy program resulted in clinically meaningful improvements in neuromuscular function and functional independence in chronic stroke.