Self-reported walking ability in persons with chronic stroke and the relationship with gait performance tests

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Chronic stroke survivors often experience persistent challenges with mobility and daily activities.
• Assessing walking ability is crucial for rehabilitation planning and outcome prediction in post-stroke individuals.
• Existing gait performance tests may not fully capture the subjective experience of walking limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate self-reported walking ability using the Walking Impact Scale (Walk-12) in individuals with chronic stroke.
• To investigate the correlation between self-reported walking ability and objective gait performance measures.
• To determine the utility of the Walk-12 as a complementary assessment tool in this population.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive analysis was conducted on a convenience sample of 50 community-dwelling individuals with chronic stroke.
• Participants completed the Walking Impact Scale (Walk-12) for self-reported walking ability.
• Gait performance was assessed using the Timed "Up & Go" test, 10-m Gait Speed tests, and the 6-Minute Walk Test.

Main Results:

• 94% of participants reported limitations in their walking ability, most commonly related to speed, distance, effort, and gait quality.
• Significant correlations (P < .01) were observed between the Walk-12 scores and all four objective gait performance tests.
• The ability to run was the most affected aspect, while the need for support was least affected.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with chronic stroke perceive significant limitations in their walking ability.
• Self-reported walking ability (Walk-12) is associated with objective gait performance measures.
• The Walk-12 offers a broader perspective on walking ability than performance tests alone and can complement clinical evaluations.