Using Wireless-technology for Feedback of Daily Walking Activity Post-stroke

Using Wireless Technology in Clinical Practice: Does Feedback of Daily Walking Activity Improve Walking Outcomes of Individuals Receiving Rehabilitation Post-stroke?

Regaining independent walking is the top priority for individuals recovering from stroke. Thus, physical rehabilitation post-stroke should focus on improving walking function and endurance. However, the amount of walking completed by individuals with stroke attending rehabilitation is far below that required for independent community ambulation. There has been increased interest in accelerometer-based monitoring of walking post-stroke. Walking monitoring could be integrated within the goal-setting process for those with ambulation goals in rehabilitation. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of accelerometer-based feedback of daily walking activity during rehabilitation on the frequency and duration of walking post-stroke.

Inclusion Criteria:

• individuals with sub-acute stroke attending in-patient rehabilitation at Toronto Rehab
• patients who have identified improving walking function as a rehabilitation goal
• patients who can walk without supervision at the time of recruitment into the study