Optimizing Gait Symmetry After Stroke Using Mechanical Constraints and Sensory Feedback
Purpose
This single-session study aims to evaluate a novel gait training protocol that integrates mechanical constraints and sensory feedback to enhance paretic leg propulsion in individuals post-stroke. The study will include 15 individuals who have experienced a stroke and 15 healthy adults, each aged 20 years or older. Participants will walk on both tied-belt and split-belt treadmills under various training conditions, including backward-directed resistance (applied at the pelvis, ankle, or both) and real-time sensory feedback (visual, auditory, or combined). These interventions will be applied individually and in combination to identify the most effective environment for promoting symmetrical gait patterns. Each session will last approximately two hours. The equipment used is non-invasive, and the risk to participants is minimal.
Conditions
- Stroke
- Split-belt Treadmill
- Resistance Exercise
- Feedback
- Gait Training
Eligibility
- Eligible Ages
- Over 20 Years
- Eligible Sex
- All
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria
Aged 20 years or older For stroke group: clinical diagnosis of stroke at least 1 month prior to participation Ability to walk at least 10 meters with or without assistive devices For healthy group: able to walk independently without assistive devices
Exclusion Criteria
Life expectancy less than one year Comatose or unable to follow three-step commands Amputation of any lower limb Poorly controlled diabetes (e.g., foot ulceration) Blindness Progressive neurological disease Medically unstable condition Significant musculoskeletal impairments affecting gait Congestive heart failure or unstable angina Peripheral vascular disease Severe neuropsychiatric conditions (e.g., dementia, cognitive deficits, severe depression)
Study Design
- Phase
- N/A
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- N/A
- Intervention Model
- Single Group Assignment
- Intervention Model Description
- Participants will undergo multiple gait training conditions in a single session, including combinations of treadmill walking (tied-belt and split-belt), backward resistance (pelvis, ankle, or both), and sensory feedback (visual, auditory, or combined). All participants will receive all conditions in a within-subject crossover design.
- Primary Purpose
- Basic Science
- Masking
- None (Open Label)
Arm Groups
| Arm | Description | Assigned Intervention |
|---|---|---|
|
Experimental Gait Training with Combined Sensory Feedback and Mechanical Constraints |
All participants will receive various gait training conditions during a single session. Conditions include treadmill walking (tied-belt and split-belt), backward-directed resistance (applied at pelvis, ankle, or both), sensory feedback (visual, auditory, or combined), and a final combined condition integrating both resistance and feedback. This is a within-subject crossover design. |
|
Recruiting Locations
Galveston, Texas 77555
More Details
- Status
- Recruiting
- Sponsor
- The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
Detailed Description
The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of an integrated gait training paradigm that combines mechanical task constraints and sensory feedback during split-belt treadmill walking to enhance paretic leg propulsion and improve propulsion symmetry in individuals post-stroke. The risks associated with this study are lower than those encountered during daily walking in the community and in typical physical therapy clinics, where patients with physical impairments routinely engage in challenging exercises to improve their abilities. There is a slight possibility of local skin irritation or rash resulting from the non-allergenic adhesive tape or sensor gel used to attach the EMG sensors. This is a rare occurrence and typically resolves within one to two days without medical intervention. This study will last approximately one to two hours, depending on your condition, and involves a one-time visit. If you choose to participate in this study, the participant will be asked to: 1. Sign a consent form approved by the University of Texas Medical Branch IRB, outlining the study's purpose, procedures, benefits, risks, and policies. 2. Share medical history and well-being, and have weight, height, and heart rate (via smartwatch) monitored. 3. Assess your walking capacity. 4. Assess the Optimal Gait Training Protocol using Treadmill, Sensory Feedback, and Mechanical task constraints.