Impact of Hip Flexors Isokinetic Strengthening on Gait Capacities in Subacute Stroke Patients

Impact of Hip Flexors Isokinetic Strengthening on Gait Capacities in Subacute Stroke Patients

Post-stroke patients often present with gait disorders due to several physical impairments. Hip flexor deficit is one of the more prevalent trouble and is associated with gait capacities. This study aims at evaluating the impact of an isokinetic hip flexors strengthening rehabilitation program in the subacute phase after stroke. Patients will be randomized to an intervention group (isokinetic rehabilitation) or a control group (conventional rehabilitation) and assessed at the end of the rehabilitation program, at 3 and at 6 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients suffering from a first ever stroke
• At the subacute phase
• Able to walk at least 10m with or without assistive devices
• Hip flexors strength on the paretic side > 2/5 (MRC)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Uncontrolled epilepsy
• Contraindications to physical activity (severe arterial hypertension, aortic valvulopathy, severe PAD...)
• History of muscular or joint disorders on the paretic hip
• Subject unable to deliver an informed written consent (due to aphasia, cognitive or psychiatric disorders...)
• Protected persons
• Pregnancy