Clinical Validation of Self-Pacing Algorithms on Step Length Symmetry in Hemiplegic Populations
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.
Optimizing Gait Symmetry After Stroke Using Mechanical Constraints and Sensory Feedback