Effects of Rotation Direction during Curved Walking on Gait Parameters in Stroke Patients

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of rotation direction during curved walking on gait parameters in stroke patients. Methods: A group of thirty subjects with stroke (Berg Balance Scale score≥41 were fifteen, Berg Balance Scale score≤40 were fifteen) were enrolled in this study. Testing indications included two directions for rotation in each subject. These indications were for rotation toward the affected and unaffected side in stroke patients. The gait speed, affected side single support duration, affected side double support duration were recorded. The obtained data were analyzed by using paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test in the group that are below and above 40 points of Berg Balance Scale score. Results: There was significant increase affected side single support duration was turned the affected side in stroke patients that presented a Berg Balance Scale score≥41 (p<.05). There were significant increase gait speed, affected side single support duration, and significant decrease affected side double support duration while subjects were turned the affected side in stroke patients that presented a Berg Balance Scale score≤40 (p<.05). Conclusion: This result may be effective to rotate in the paralyzed direction to improve the ability of the paralyzed lower limb to gain weight during gait training for stroke patients with a Berg Balance Scale score<40. Therefore, walking training program for hemiplegic patient needs to be suggested in the direction of turning for suitable balance ability.