Split-Belt Walking Training for Stroke
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability in adults. Although many individuals regain independent walking ability following stroke, nearly 50% experience persistent gait impairments characterized by asymmetrical walking patterns, slower walking speed, impaired balance, and increased fall risk. These persistent mobility limitations highlight the continued need for innovative rehabilitation strategies that improve gait function during stroke recovery. Split-belt treadmill walking (SBTW), in which each leg walks at a different belt speed, has demonstrated potential to improve step length symmetry in individuals with chronic stroke. However, the effects of SBTW during the subacute stage of stroke recovery, within the first 9 months post-stroke when neuroplasticity may be heightened, remain largely unknown. In addition, previous SBTW studies have not integrated active physiotherapist-led gait retraining into the intervention, despite physiotherapist-led gait rehabilitation representing standard clinical care following stroke. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to compare physiotherapist-led gait retraining using a traditional treadmill training protocol to physiotherapist-led gait retraining integrated with a split-belt treadmill training protocol during the first 9 months post-stroke. The study aims to examine the effectiveness of the use of split-belt treadmill training to augment physiotherapist-led gait retraining to improve between-leg gait symmetry and overground walking speed.
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults who have had a stroke on one side of the brain within the past 9 months, causing weakness on one side. Participants must be able to walk at least ten meters (with or without aids), stand unsupported for five minutes, and speak English.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo physiotherapist-led gait retraining using either split-belt or traditional treadmill training protocols
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Split-belt walking training
Trial Overview
The study compares two types of physiotherapist-led treadmill walking training: traditional treadmill training versus split-belt treadmill training, where each leg walks at a different speed. The goal is to see which method better improves walking symmetry and speed after stroke.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Participants will complete 12 gait training sessions over 4 weeks (3 sessions/week) on an instrumented split-belt treadmill involving both split-belt and tied-belt walking conditions. A physiotherapist will provide gait retraining during each training session.
Participants will complete 12 gait training sessions over 4 weeks (3 sessions/week) on an instrumented treadmill under tied-belt walking conditions only. A physiotherapist will provide gait retraining during each training session.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of British Columbia
Lead Sponsor
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