Effects of a Multi-Modal Gait Training Program in an Individual with Chronic Stroke: a Case Study

Authors

Anne Boddy, Baylor UniversityFollow
Lindsay A. Perry, Augustana UniversityFollow
Chitralakshmi K. Balasubramanian, University of North FloridaFollow

Abstract

Purpose: Multi-modal gait training (MMGT) may improve impairments and functional limitations in individuals’ post-stroke. The purpose of this case study was to investigate effects of MMGT on gait and balance outcomes immediately post-intervention, 30-day short term (ST) and 1-year long term follow-up periods. Method: A 63-year-old patient, eight years post-stroke, participated in a MMGT program that included evidence-based gait interventions: unilateral treadmill training, inclined treadmill training at 8%, and over-ground fast walking. The eight sessions lasted 45-minutes each and consisted of the three interventions lasting 10-minutes each with rest breaks. Results: Self-selected (SS) and fastest comfortable gait speed revealed meaningful changes (post-intervention, however, only SS gait speed maintained improvements at ST measurements). The Activities Balance Confidence Scale (ABC) increased from 19% to 28% at 1-year. Conclusions: MMGT is soundly grounded in the contemporary principles of neuroplasticity. This case study confirmed that the combination of three task-specific and intense gait training interventions are safe and feasible for persons in the chronic phase of stroke. While ST results showed this MMGT improved all study outcomes from baseline to immediate post-intervention, substantial gains were retained only for SS gait speed and ABC scale at the 1-year follow-up.

Author Bio(s)

Anne Boddy, PT, DPT, PhD, NCS is an Associate Professor of Physical Therapy in the Robbins College at Baylor University in Waco, TX. She is a licensed physical therapist in the state of Florida.

Lindsay Perry, PT, DPT, NCS is an Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy at the University of St. Augustine in St. Augustine, FL. She is a licensed physical therapist in the state of Florida.

Chitralakshmi K Balasubramanian PT, PhD is an Associate Professor of Physical Therapy at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, FL. She is a licensed physical therapist in the state of Florida.

Recommended Citation

Boddy A, Perry LA, Balasubramanian CK. Effects of a Multi-Modal Gait Training Program in an Individual with Chronic Stroke: a Case Study. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2023 Sep 21;21(4), Article 4.