Self-perceived functioning and disability after randomized conventional and electromechanically-assisted gait training in subacute stroke: A 6 months follow-up
Affiliations: Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Anneli Wall, Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Entrévägen 8, floor 2, Danderyd Hospital, SE- 182 88 Stockholm, Sweden. Tel.: +46 8 123 59238; E-mail: anneli.wall@sll.se.
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Few previous studies have assessed self-perceived functioning, disability and recovery after electromechanically-assisted gait training (EAGT). OBJECTIVE:To compare self-perceived functioning, disability and recovery after EAGT and after conventional gait training in the subacute stage after stroke, using the Stroke Impact Scale (SIS), and factors associated with self-perceived recovery, assessed at 6 months after stroke. METHODS:Patients were randomized into two groups performing a 4-week intervention period of incorporated EAGT using the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) or conventional physiotherapy only. RESULTS:There were no significant differences in self-perceived strength, ADL, mobility, participation and percentage of recovery between intervention groups (p > 0.05). Self-perceived mobility was associated with improvements in objectively assessed walking speed/endurance and balance (R2 0.717, p = 0.002), and self-perceived recovery with self-perceived activities of daily living (ADL) ability (R2 0.34, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS:This study indicates that EAGT and conventional gait training in the subacute stage after stroke have no differential impact on self-perceived functioning, disability and recovery at 6 months after stroke. Further, the study highlights the importance of interventions targeting ADL and self-care independence during stroke rehabilitation to enhance self-perceived recovery and clinical aspects to be targeted to enhance perceived mobility.
Keywords: Hybrid assistive limb, stroke, rehabilitation, robotics, walking, activities of daily living
