Gait Training in Chronic Stroke Using Walk-Even Feedback Device: A Pilot Study. (24th November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Krishnan, V.; Khoo, I.; Marayong, P.; DeMars, K.; Cormack, J.
• Other Names: Mir Pablo Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Neuroscience journal. Volume 2016(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-11-24
• Subjects: Neurosciences -- Periodicals; 616.8005
• DOI: 10.1155/2016/6808319
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2314-4262

Abstract

Abstract : Asymmetrical gait and a reduction in weight bearing on the affected side are a common finding in chronic stroke survivors. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the effectiveness of a shoe insole device that we developed, called Walk-Even, in correcting asymmetric gait in chronic stroke survivors. Six individuals with chronic (>6 months) stroke underwent 8 weeks of intervention with 2 sessions/week, each consisting of 20 minutes of gait training and 20 minutes of lower-extremity strength training. The 2 control participants underwent conventional gait training, while 4 participants underwent gait training using the Walk-Even. Following intervention, all the participants improved on most of the gait measures: peak pressure of the foot, time of transfer of weight from heel-to-forefoot, center of pressure (COP) trajectory, COP velocity, asymmetry ratio of stance, mean-force-heel, mean-force-metatarsals, Timed "Up and Go, " and Activities-specific Balance Scale. The improvement was more pronounced in the 4 participants that underwent training with Walk-Even compared to the control participants. This pilot study suggests that a combination of strength and gait training with real-time feedback may reduce temporal asymmetry and enhance weight-bearing on the affected side in chronic stroke survivors. A large randomized controlled study is needed to confirm its efficacy.