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Gait patterns in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|February 1, 1984
Summary
This study found that decreased walking speed in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients is linked to reduced stride length and cadence. Lower extremity muscle strength was the strongest predictor of walking performance in these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) significantly impacts motor function, including gait.
- Understanding gait alterations in ALS is crucial for patient management and rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between disease state and walking performance in ALS patients.
- To identify specific gait parameters affected by ALS and factors correlating with performance.
Main Methods:
- High-speed cameras filmed 24 ALS patients walking at free speed.
- 3D motion analysis quantified limb kinematics and spatiotemporal gait parameters.
- Correlation analyses examined relationships between gait, muscle strength, and clinical factors.
Main Results:
- Gait velocity correlated positively with cadence and stride length.
- Slower walking was associated with increased double limb support and reduced single limb stance time.
- Lower extremity muscle strength showed the strongest correlation with gait performance.
- Specific kinematic deviations included reduced hip excursion, excessive initial knee flexion, and diminished plantarflexion.
Conclusions:
- Gait velocity, cadence, and stride length are significantly impaired in ALS patients.
- Muscle weakness is a primary determinant of impaired walking performance in ALS.
- Targeted interventions to improve muscle strength may enhance gait in ALS.