[Effectiveness of backward walking treadmill training in lower extremity function after stroke].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Stroke frequently results in impaired motor function, balance deficits, and reduced walking speed.
• Restoring these functions is crucial for patient independence and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of incorporating backward walking treadmill training into conventional therapy for stroke patients.
• To assess improvements in motor function, balance, and walking speed following this intervention.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six stroke patients with specific motor recovery stages were randomized into a control group (conventional training) and an experimental group (conventional + backward walking training).
• Intervention lasted three weeks, with training sessions five times per week.
• Assessments included the Fugl-Meyer assessment for lower extremity motor function (FMA-L), Berg balance scale (BBS), and 10-meter maximum walking speed (MWS).

Main Results:

• The experimental group showed significantly higher FMA-L scores (28.0 ± 3.3) compared to the control group (25.5 ± 2.3, P=0.033).
• Berg balance scale scores were significantly better in the experimental group (51.4 ± 1.8) versus the control group (47.3 ± 3.7, P=0.001).
• The experimental group achieved a significantly higher 10-meter maximum walking speed (57 ± 17) than the control group (43 ± 16, P=0.034).

Conclusions:

• Backward walking treadmill training is a safe and feasible addition to conventional stroke rehabilitation.
• This therapy effectively enhances motor function, balance, and walking speed in stroke patients.
• The findings support the integration of backward walking exercises for improved stroke recovery outcomes.