Effect of Propulsion Asymmetry on Gait After Stroke
Author Information
Author(s): Kettlety Sarah A., Finley James M, Leech Kristan A.
Hypothesis
Decreasing propulsion asymmetry would reduce overall gait asymmetry.
Conclusion
Reducing propulsive asymmetry using biofeedback is unlikely to produce substantial reductions in overall gait asymmetry.
Supporting Evidence
- The study aimed to understand the impact of reducing propulsion asymmetry on overall gait asymmetry.
- A positive association was found between changes in propulsion asymmetry and changes in overall gait asymmetry.
- The average change in propulsion asymmetry was −0.09, suggesting a minimal expected change in overall gait asymmetry.
Takeaway
This study looked at how changes in walking push from one leg affect overall walking balance after a stroke. It found that just improving push from one leg doesn't really help overall balance.
Methodology
Participants completed twenty minutes of biofeedback training designed to increase paretic propulsion, and changes in propulsion asymmetry and overall gait asymmetry were measured.
Limitations
The study may not account for other factors that influence gait asymmetry.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p=0.002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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