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Asymmetric Walkway: A Novel Behavioral Assay for Studying Asymmetric Locomotion
Published on: January 15, 2016
Physical activity, ambulation, and motor impairment late after stroke
Anna Danielsson1, Carin Willén, Katharina Stibrant Sunnerhagen
1Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology/Rehabilitation Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 45 Göteborg, Sweden.
Stroke Research and Treatment
|September 24, 2011
Summary
Late after stroke, individuals showed reduced walking capacity and physical activity. Motor impairment impacted walking but not activity levels, suggesting a need for interventions to boost physical activity even years post-stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Stroke survivors often experience long-term deficits in motor function and physical activity.
- Assessing walking capacity and physical activity is crucial for understanding functional recovery and quality of life post-stroke.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate walking capacity and physical activity in individuals with chronic stroke.
- To investigate the relationship between motor impairment, walking capacity, and physical activity levels.
Main Methods:
- Utilized clinical measures including the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, maximum walking speed, and the 6-minute walk test.
- Assessed physiological cost index and self-reported physical activity using The Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly.
- Included a nonrandomized sample of 31 individuals (22 men, 9 women) 7-10 years post-stroke.
Main Results:
- Mean 6-minute walk distance was 352m; Physiological Cost Index was 0.60.
- Self-reported physical activity was 70% of reference values.
- Motor impairment correlated with walking capacity but not with physical activity levels.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with chronic stroke demonstrate reduced walking capacity and physical activity levels compared to references.
- Enhancing physical activity is important for stroke survivors, even in the late chronic phase.
- Motor impairment is linked to reduced walking ability, but not necessarily to lower physical activity engagement.
