Clinical Validation of Self-Pacing Algorithms on Step Length Symmetry in Hemiplegic Populations

Overview

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the efficacy of self-pacing algorithms in promoting step-length equalization in people with weakness on one side of the body. The main question it aims to answer is: • How does walking on a treadmill that uses self-pacing algorithms to adjust speed affect stride length in comparison to walking on a treadmill without self-pacing capability? Researchers will compare study participants to themselves when walking on a self-pacing treadmill compared to walking on a fixed-pacing treadmill to see if a difference exists in the equalization of left- and right-sided stride length. Participants will walk for two minutes at a self-selected pace to warm up and establish a baseline walking speed. They will then walk for 1 - 3 minutes either on a self-pacing treadmill or a fixed-pacing treadmill. A 3-minute seated rest break will follow. Then participants will walk for another 1 - 3 minutes using the treadmill not used in the first walking trial.

The chosen treadmill has self-pacing algorithms installed that adjust speed as a person walks. This allows a person to increase or decrease speed as desired throughout a walking session. Researchers have not yet determined the effect of using a self-pacing treadmill on left-right gait equalization among people with acquired hemiparesis secondary to stroke or traumatic brain injury. The researchers will compare measurement data captured by the system software when participants walk on the treadmill with the self-pacing feature turned on versus off. Each walking trial will last 1 - 3 minutes and will occur in a random order during a single research session. The randomization is to ensure that fatigue is not a factor when interpreting results.