Spatio-temporal and kinematic asymmetry ratio in subgroups of patients with stroke

To determine the spatio-temporal and kinematic gait asymmetry in hemiparetic patients after stroke, and to compare the subgroups in terms of asymmetry ratio.

Spatio-temporal and kinematic characteristics of gait in 100 patients (37 females, 63 males) with hemiparesis after stroke were retrospectively evaluated. The mean+/-SD age was 57.9+/-12.1 years (range 18-80) and time since stroke was 5.75+/-5.9 months (range 1-36). Subgroups were based on age, gender, side of paresis, lesion type, motor recovery level, sensory status, time since stroke and walking velocity.

The older patients (65 years) had a higher temporal asymmetry in terms of single-support time whereas the younger patients (<65 years) had a higher kinematic asymmetry in terms of ankle joint kinematics at both stance and swing phases (P<0.05). In the poor motor recovery group, asymmetry ratios of step length, hip and knee extension at stance, and ankle kinematics were significantly higher than those of the good motor recovery group (P<0.05). In the slow walking group, step length showed a greater asymmetry than in the fast walking group (P<0.05). Gait asymmetry was similar among the patients when they were grouped according to their gender, side of paresis, lesion type, proprioception, and time since stroke.

For better interpretation of quantitative gait data and to offer appropriate rehabilitation programs, clinicians should consider that spatio-temporal and kinematic asymmetry might vary according to age, motor recovery level and walking speed of hemiparetic patients after stroke.