This is a randomized control trial that will evaluate the effectiveness of transcutaneous (non-invasive) spinal cord stimulation on gait and balance function for individuals with hemiplegia due to stroke.
OBJECTIVES: * To determine whether transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation combined with ambulation training modulates corticospinal locomotor networks in individuals with chronic hemiplegic stroke * To determine whether transcutaneous spinal stimulation combined with ambulation training improves locomotor function in individuals with chronic hemiplegic stroke * To determine whether transcutaneous spinal stimulation combined with ambulation training improves symmetry of gait in individuals with chronic hemiplegic stroke * To determine whether transcutaneous spinal stimulation combined with ambulation training improves standing posture and balance in individuals with chronic hemiplegic stroke * To determine whether ambulation efficiency (improved cardiovascular conditioning) improves with transcutaneous non-invasive spinal stimulation and locomotor training in individuals with chronic hemiplegic stroke
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
8
Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Neurostimulator will deliver transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation while subjects perform locomotor activities.
May receive up to 50 min of locomotion training without transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation. However, the amount of time spent in side-lying locomotion training, treadmill training and overground training will depend on individual tolerance and progression.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Chicago, Illinois, United States
Change in Step-length Symmetry Using Symmetry Index
Participants will ambulate along Gait Rite electronic walkway to evaluate baseline gait pattern at both their self-selected and safe fast gait speed. The GAITRite electronic walkway for the study shall be a minimum of 14 feet long. The GAITRite data capture was chosen as measurement of the patient's overall gait quality. The gait symmetry index of spatio-temporal parameters will be calculated as (100%×(1-\|1-Nonparetic/(Paretic side)\|), which always results in a maximum value of 100%, irrespective of which limb demonstrates greater values, with improvements observed as positive values. Higher scores = better outcome.
Time frame: Pre and Post intervention (8 weeks of training, Post = after all training sessions completed. 3 training sessions/week x8 weeks = 24 sessions total)
Change in Swing-time Symmetry
Participants will ambulate along Gait Rite electronic walkway to evaluate baseline gait pattern at both their self-selected and safe fast gait speed. The GAITRite electronic walkway for the study shall be a minimum of 14 feet long. The GAITRite data capture was chosen as measurement of the patient's overall gait quality. The gait symmetry index of spatio-temporal parameters will be calculated as (100%×(1-\|1-Nonparetic/(Paretic side)\|), which always results in a maximum value of 100%, irrespective of which limb demonstrates greater values, with improvements observed as positive values. Higher scores = better outcome.
Time frame: Pre and Post intervention (8 weeks of training, Post = after all training sessions completed. 3 training sessions/week x8 weeks = 24 sessions total)
Change in 10 Meter Walk Test - Self-selected Velocity
This test will examine the patient's gait speed. Patients will be directed to walk at their preferred and maximum but safe speed. Patients will be positioned 1 meter before the start line and instructed to walk the entire distance and past the end line approximately 1 meter. The distance before and after the course are meant to minimize the effect of acceleration and deceleration. Time will be recorded using a stopwatch and recorded to the one hundredth of a second (ex: 2.15 sec).
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Time frame: Pre and Post intervention (8 weeks of training, Post = after all training sessions completed. 3 training sessions/week x8 weeks = 24 sessions total)
Change in 10 Meter Walk Test - Fast Velocity
This test will examine the patient's gait speed. Patients will be directed to walk at their preferred and maximum but safe speed. Patients will be positioned 1 meter before the start line and instructed to walk the entire distance and past the end line approximately 1 meter. The distance before and after the course are meant to minimize the effect of acceleration and deceleration. Time will be recorded using a stopwatch and recorded to the one hundredth of a second (ex: 2.15 sec).
Time frame: Pre and Post intervention (8 weeks of training, Post = after all training sessions completed. 3 training sessions/week x8 weeks = 24 sessions total)
Change in 6 Minute Walk Test
The 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT) measures the distance a subject can walk indoors on a flat, hard surface in a period of 6 minutes, using assistive devices, as necessary. The test is a reliable and valid evaluation of functional exercise capacity and is used as a sub-maximal test of aerobic capacity and endurance. The test will be used to determine participant's gait efficiency at baseline and at study completion. The walk test is patient self-paced and assesses the level of functional capacity. Patients are allowed to stop and rest during the test, however, the timer does not stop. If the patient is unable to complete the time, the time stopped is noted and reason for stopping prematurely is recorded.
Time frame: Pre and Post intervention (8 weeks of training, Post = after all training sessions completed. 3 training sessions/week x8 weeks = 24 sessions total)
Change in PCI During 6 Minute Walk Test
Participants completed the 6MWT as heart rate was recorded throughout the testing using a Polar H7 chest belt monitor. Prior to beginning the 6MWT, average resting heart rate was recorded for two minutes while the subject was seated and quiet. Cardiac efficiency during 6MWT was measured by physiological cost index (PCI), which reflects heart rate per meter walked. Reduced PCI indicates improved cardiac efficiency.
Time frame: Pre and Post intervention (8 weeks of training, Post = after all training sessions completed. 3 training sessions/week x8 weeks = 24 sessions total)