Analysis Acceleration/Deceleration Distance Gait Speed Tests in Stroke Survivors

Overview

Introduction: Gait speed is currently used to predict the future functional status of the patient or to evaluate the improvements produced by different neurorehabilitation treatments. There is no common agreement among researchers and clinicians as to the optimal distance required to accelerate and decelerate in walking tests (4-meter and 6-meter timed) in people in the chronic phase of stroke. Objectives: The main objective is to analyze what is the optimal distance to accelerate and decelerate in the 4-meter walk test (4mWT) and 6-meter walk test (6mWT) at comfortable and fast speed with optical motion capture for chronic stroke survivors (\> 6 months). The secondary objective is to evaluate whether the mean gait speed taken by stopwatch is comparable to optical motion capture system Optitrack for the 4mWT and the 6mWT for a correct measurement of gait at comfortable and fast speed in in chronic stroke survivors. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study is performed. The walking speed is measured using the OptiTrack optical motion capture system consisting of 8 PrimeX 13 cameras and Motive 2.0 capture and analysis software (Natural Point Inc. Corvallis OR USA).The patient ware 8 markers sensors applied to different parts of the body. The two tests are performed first at a comfortable gait and second at the fastest gait that the patient can safely perform. There were 3 repetitions for each of the tests. The individuals are randomized to start with either the 6mWT or the 4mWT test. All tests are performed on the same day. Discussion: This study will shed light on what is the optimal distance required for acceleration and deceleration phases on the 6mWT and 4mWT walking tests at comfortable and fast speed.

Gait disorder is a common clinical problem after stroke and is among the prevalent physical limitations contributing to stroke-related disability that impacts performance of activities of daily(1). Gait disturbances in patients with stroke are caused by weakness (paresis or paralysis), abnormal tone in the limbs or trunk, or by disturbances in the sensory-motor system or central control mechanisms.(2) Therefore, gait recovery is a major objective in the rehabilitation program in stroke survivors.(3) Walking speed is considered to be the sixth vital sign (4). Clinical practice guidelines worldwide recommend using reliable and valid tools to assess walking in stroke rehabilitation.(5,6) The 10 meter walk test at comfortable speed is widely recommended to reflect a walking speed. (7) However, there are many different distances to accelerate and decelerate.