Effects of Treadmill-Based Gait Training in Patients With Stroke

Effects of Treadmill-Based Gait Training in Patients With Stroke

Hemiplegia is one of the most common sequelae after stroke. Most patients develop thermal asymmetry between the affected and contralateral sides of the body, as well as an asymmetric gait pattern characterized by differences in the duration of gait cycle phases, step length, cadence, and weight distribution between limbs. These patterns result in reduced aerobic capacity, endurance, energy efficiency, and walking speed, negatively impacting the patient's functional abilities.

There are different methodologies for the treatment gait impairments. Among them, treadmill training has been investigated as an effective therapeutic approach to post-stroke rehabilitation.

Treadmill gait training may reduce asymmetry between hemibodies in hemiplegic patients.

For this reason, our aim is to describe the effects of treadmill training on gait, focusing on its impact on thermal asymmetry, walking speed, aerobic endurance, and the biomechanical and kinematic characteristics of gait.

Patients with hemiplegia will undergo treadmill-based gait training to evaluate its influence on the recovery of this sequel of stroke.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 18 and 80 years
• History of stroke at least six months prior
• Presence of hemiplegia or hemiparesis
• Ability to walk independently or with assistive devices

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive impairments interfering with the understanding of treatment procedures
• Inability to get on and maintain position on the treadmill
• Severe heart failure
• Active inflammatory or infectious conditions at the time of evaluation
• Attendance below 80% of scheduled sessions