Serial Backward Locomotor Treadmill Training Improves Bidirectional Walking Performance in Chronic Stroke.

ABSTRACT:

Background and research question

Walking impairment remains a major limitation to functional independence after stroke. Yet, comprehensive and effective strategies to improve walking function after stroke are presently limited. Backward Locomotor Treadmill Training (BLTT) is a promising training approach for improving walking function; however, little is known about its mechanism of effect or the relationship between backward walking training and resulting overground forward walking performance. This study aims to determine the effects of serial BLTT on spatial aspects of backward and forward walking in chronic post-stroke individuals with residual walking impairment.

Methods

Thirty-nine adults (>6 months post-stroke) underwent 6 days of BLTT (3 × /week) over 2 weeks. Outcom

SUBMITTER: Awosika OO 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8963981 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature