Study of Split-Belt Treadmill Walking to Improve Gait Symmetry in Adults Aged 18 to 70 with Unilateral Motor Impairments

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to study dynamic asymmetries in the lower limbs of adults with unilateral motor impairments caused by conditions like post-stroke hemiparesis, Parkinsons disease, multiple sclerosis, unilateral amputation, or orthopedic surgeries. It evaluates how walking on a split-belt treadmill, where each leg moves at a different speed, affects gait patterns and neural control of walking. The study seeks to clarify the potential of this split gait as a rehabilitation tool by investigating spatial and dynamic asymmetries and their effects on body movement. Participants will perform walking tests on a split-belt treadmill with belts moving at different speeds in a specific sequence a baseline phase with increasing speed, a short habituation phase, an adaptation phase where one leg walks faster than the other for six minutes, and a post-adaptation phase where belt speeds are equal again for six minutes. After one week, participants repeat the protocol with the affected limb on the faster belt. The treadmill is equipped with force sensors, and participants walk freely without support. During the study, researchers will assess ankle joint power, step length, single and double stance times, and center of mass motion through two assessments spaced a week apart. Participants will be informed verbally before belt speed changes. The study involves adults aged 18 to 70 who can walk at least 20 meters unaided and understand instructions. The total participation includes multiple walking sessions and repeated assessments to monitor gait adaptation and symmetry changes.

Efficacy of Split Gait in the Treatment of Dynamic Asymmetries in Subjects With Pathologic Claudication