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Velocity Determinants in Spastic Patients after Stroke-A Gait Analysis Study
Miguel Reis E Silva1, Jorge Jacinto1
1Laboratório de Marcha, Centro de Medicina de Reabilitação de Alcoitão, 2649-506 Alcabideche, Portugal.
Neurology International
|November 11, 2020
Summary
Faster walking speed in stroke survivors with spasticity is linked to specific gait mechanics. Key factors include stride length, cadence, and improved hip extension and ankle plantarflexion during the stance phase.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Gait velocity in stroke patients with spasticity is a critical indicator of quality of life and mortality.
- The specific biomechanical factors limiting faster gait velocity in this population remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify gait parameters associated with higher walking velocity in stroke patients experiencing spastic paresis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of gait laboratory data from 34 adult stroke patients with unilateral deficits.
- Exclusion of patients using walking aids or external support.
- Inclusion of spatiotemporal, kinematic, and dynamometric gait studies.
Main Results:
- Velocity correlated with cadence, paretic limb stride length, and stance/swing phase times for both limbs.
- Significant correlations found with hip extension during stance, knee flexion during swing, and ankle plantarflexion during stance.
- Double support time also showed a correlation with velocity.
Conclusions:
- Gait velocity is primarily influenced by step length, cadence, and stance phase events enabling forward body progression.
- Knee flexion during the swing phase is the sole swing-related parameter correlated with speed.
- Further research is needed to pinpoint optimal gait training targets for spastic stroke patients.
