Article

PURPOSE: To investigate the basic spatio-temporal gait characteristics of people
with stroke whilst walking on sloped and level terrain, and to compare this
performance to healthy matched adults. METHOD: Fifteen community dwelling people
with stroke who walked with a hemiplegic gait and a reference group of 15 adults
without impairments matched for sex, age and height participated in this
descriptive, observational study. Basic gait spatio-temporal measures were
recorded at self-selected speed across a GAITRite mat placed on level, uphill and
downhill (ramp gradient 1:14 or 4.1 degrees ) surfaces. Measures recorded were
gait speed, cadence, step length, support base, single and double limb support
duration and step length symmetry. Group and walking condition effects were
assessed by two separate 2-way (group x slope) repeated measures multivariate
analysis of variance. RESULTS: The stroke group walked slower (p < 0.001) than
the reference group for all conditions. Within-group analyses found the stroke
group decreased their speed and step length when walking downhill compared to
level and uphill walking (p < 0.001). In contrast, the reference group maintained
speed across all walking conditions. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that
walking on slopes affects gait speed in people with stroke and this may have
implications when walking in the community. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: *
Although a high percentage of people achieve walking independence following a
stroke, few achieve independent community mobility. * Walking on slopes is an
important aspect of community mobility. * When walking down a standard gradient
ramp, people with stroke reduced their speed and step length, relative to level
over-ground and uphill walking. * It is recommended that attention be directed to
assessment and treatment of walking on slopes as part of stroke rehabilitation,
as this may have implications when walking in the community.

Langue : ANGLAIS