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Published on: May 16, 2025
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Backward Walking Training Impacts Positive Effect on Improving Walking Capacity after Stroke: A Meta-Analysis
1Department of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Finance & Economics, No. 777 Guoding Road, Yangpu District, Shanghai 200433, China.
Summary
Backward walking training (BWT) significantly improves walking function in stroke patients. This therapy enhances motor skills, balance, and gait parameters, offering a promising rehabilitation strategy.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Neurology
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, often resulting in impaired walking function.
- Restoring gait and balance is a primary goal in post-stroke rehabilitation.
- Exploring novel therapeutic approaches like backward walking training (BWT) is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the efficacy of backward walking training (BWT) for improving walking function in stroke survivors.
- To synthesize evidence from multiple studies to determine the overall impact of BWT on gait parameters and balance.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted on eligible studies systematically searched from major databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library).
- Heterogeneity was assessed, and outcomes were pooled using weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).
- Seven relevant articles were included in the final analysis.
Main Results:
- Backward walking training demonstrated statistically significant improvements in the 10-meter walk test (WMD 0.11 m/s, p=0.03).
- Significant enhancements were observed in cadence (WMD 4.00 steps/min, p<0.01), Berg Balance Scale scores (WMD 4.38, p<0.01), paretic step length (WMD 5.32 cm, p<0.01), and stride length (WMD 6.61 cm, p=0.03).
Conclusions:
- Backward walking training is an effective intervention for improving walking function in patients following a stroke.
- BWT positively influences key motor and balance parameters essential for gait recovery.
- This meta-analysis supports the integration of BWT into stroke rehabilitation protocols.
