Article

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of acceleration and deceleration distance (0, 1,
2 and 3 m) on the comfortable and maximum walking speeds in: (i) the 5-m walk
test (5mWT); and (ii) the 10-m walk test (10mWT) in people with chronic stroke.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: University-based rehabilitation centre.
SUBJECTS: Thirty individuals with chronic stroke.
METHODS: Timed walking at
comfortable and maximum walking speeds in the 5mWT and 10mWT with different
acceleration and deceleration distances (0, 1, 2 and 3 m). RESULTS: The
comfortable walking speed in the 5mWT with 0 m acceleration and deceleration
distance was significantly slower than that with 1, 2 or 3 m acceleration and
deceleration distances (p < 0.0083), but there was no significant difference
among 1, 2 and 3 m acceleration and deceleration distances. No significant
difference was found in the maximum walking speed in the 5mWT, or in the
comfortable and maximum walking speeds of the 10mWT. CONCLUSION: Adoption of 1 m
acceleration and deceleration distance is recommended when measuring the
comfortable walking speed in the 5mWT in people with stroke. Neither acceleration
nor deceleration distance is needed when measuring the maximum walking speed in
the 5mWT, the comfortable walking speed or the maximum walking speed in the 10mWT.

Langue : ANGLAIS