Overview
Walking disorder is the most common and concerning issue for individuals with stroke. Previous studies have often used improvements in walking speed and distance as reference indicators for the advancement of gait performance in individuals with stroke. However, for individuals with chronic stroke, considering gait symmetry and variability to enhance gait quality as the primary intervention target may be more crucial. According to a literature review, it can be inferred that the application of biofeedback to detect gait quality may be an effective approach to improve gait symmetry and variability in individuals with stroke. However, there is still insufficient research evidence on this issue. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of a kinematic biofeedback device system, which detects hip joint angles, on gait quality in individuals with chronic stroke.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- First stroke
- Stroke onset time ≥ 6 months
- Functional Ambulation Category ≥3
- Passive range of motion of affected hip extension is at least 10 degrees
- Mini-Mental State Measurement score ≥ 24 points
Exclusion Criteria:
- Modified Ashworth Scale of affected ankle plantar flexors ≥ 2
- Muscle strength of affected ankle plantar flexors via Manual Muscle Testing ≤ 1
- Uncorrected auditory impairment
- Severe cardiovascular disease or uncontrolled hypertension
- Other orthopedic diseases that may affect walking ability
- Other neurological disease except stroke