Cognitive-motor dual-task gait training within 3 years after stroke: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Motor Control
• Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

• Dual-task gait training (DTGT) shows potential for improving gait speed in stroke survivors.
• The impact of DTGT on cognitive-motor dual-task interference remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of DTGT versus single-task gait training (STGT) on cognitive-motor dual-task interference after stroke.
• To assess changes in dual-task gait speed and cognitive task performance.

Main Methods:

• 36 stroke survivors were randomized to STGT or DTGT for 4 weeks.
• Primary outcomes included relative dual-task effect on gait speed (DTEg) and cognitive task performance (DTEc).
• Assessments were conducted during preferred and fast walking speeds under two dual-task conditions.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in DTEg or DTEc were found between DTGT and STGT groups.
• Both groups showed improvements in single- and dual-task gait speed.
• Subgroup analysis indicated potential benefits of DTGT for individuals with greater baseline interference.

Conclusions:

• Both DTGT and STGT enhance gait speed but do not modify relative dual-task interference.
• The study's findings might be influenced by a low baseline level of gait-related dual-task interference.