Herk De Stad

Researchers are evaluating the BOOST GAIT program to see if it can improve functional mobility in patients recovering from a stroke who have some walking ability and are undergoing inpatient rehabilitation. This pilot study focuses on patients with hemiparesis after a first-ever stroke, aiming to encourage a more normal walking pattern through augmented therapeutic exercises. The study also looks to test recruitment and dropout rates, identify challenges to therapy adherence and data collection, and assess the reliability of motion sensors used to measure walking quality. Participants will receive their usual care plus additional group-based therapy sessions through the BOOST GAIT program over four weeks. These sessions occur five times a week for one hour, with groups of four patients guided by two physiotherapists. The therapy focuses on mobility-specific exercises such as sit-to-stand transfers, standing, stepping, and eventually walking. The goal is to improve motor control of the affected leg and promote symmetry during these tasks to enhance safe walking and mobility. During the study, participants' walking speed will be measured at the start and end of the intervention using clinical scales and motion sensors that track walking quality and daily activities like rising from a chair and standing. Sensor measurements will be repeated on two consecutive days at the end of the intervention to check reliability. Researchers will monitor participants throughout the four-week therapy to collect data on functional improvements and therapy adherence.