Objective To investigate the effect of balance acupuncture combined with motor relearning training on lower limb motor function in stroke patients with hemiplegia.Methods Eighty stroke patients were randomly assigned to motor relearning training group and balance acupuncture plus motor relearning group(n=40 cases in each).The motor relearning training program consisting of upper-limb functional training

lying supine

bedside sitting

sitting-balancing

standing up and down

standingbalancing

walking

orofacial functional training

etc.was given to patients of the two groups.Balance acupuncture stimulating was applied to Piantan-

Jiantong-

Xitong-

Tuntong-and Huaitong-points for 30 min

once daily

5 times a week for 8 weeks.The lower limb motor performance ability was assessed by using Fugl-Meyer Assessment(FMA-L)scale

the balance function assessed by using Berg balance scale(BBS)

the motor ability evaluated by using Rivermead motor index(RMI)

and the gait(walking speed

cadence

and step length)evaluated by using Brunnstrom hemiplegia gait evaluation scale.Results After the treatment

the scores of FMA-L

BBS

RMI and hemiplegia gait were significantly increased in the two groups compared with their own pre-treatment(P<0.05)

and were significantly higher in the balance acupuncture plus motor relearning group than in the motor relearning training group(P<0.05).Conclusion The balance acupuncture combined with motor relearning can improve lower limb motor function and balance function

and has a better effect than simple motor relearning training.