Improving Walking Symmetry After Stroke Using Mechanical Resistance and Sensory Feedback in Treadmill Training

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new gait training method that combines mechanical constraints and sensory feedback to improve the walking ability of individuals who have had a stroke. This study involves 15 people post-stroke and 15 healthy adults aged 20 years or older. The goal is to enhance the strength and symmetry of the paretic leg during walking by testing different conditions on treadmills, including split-belt and tied-belt setups. Participants will walk on treadmills under various conditions in a single session lasting about two hours. These conditions include backward resistance applied at the pelvis, ankle, or both, and real-time sensory feedback through visual, auditory, or combined signals. The study uses a within-subject design where each participant experiences all conditions individually and combined to find the most effective way to promote balanced walking. During the visit, participants will sign consent forms, share medical history, and have measurements such as weight, height, and heart rate taken. They will undergo walking assessments on the treadmill and overground to evaluate leg propulsion and gait patterns. Researchers will measure changes in leg force, muscle activity, joint motion, step length, walking speed, and other gait parameters. The study includes safety monitoring and lasts about one to two hours with minimal risk to participants.

Optimizing Gait Symmetry After Stroke Using Mechanical Constraints and Sensory Feedback