RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07087769

Optimizing Gait Symmetry After Stroke Using Mechanical Constraints and Sensory Feedback

Optimizing Post-Stroke Gait Symmetry: Integrating Mechanical Constraints and Sensory Feedback to Enhance Paretic Leg Propulsion

Sponsor

The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston

Enrollment

30 participants

Start Date

Jul 25, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Resistance Exercise Stroke Gait Training Split-belt Treadmill Feedback

Summary

This single-session study aims to evaluate a novel gait training protocol that integrates mechanical constraints and sensory feedback to enhance paretic leg propulsion in individuals post-stroke. The study will include 15 individuals who have experienced a stroke and 15 healthy adults, each aged 20 years or older. Participants will walk on both tied-belt and split-belt treadmills under various training conditions, including backward-directed resistance (applied at the pelvis, ankle, or both) and real-time sensory feedback (visual, auditory, or combined). These interventions will be applied individually and in combination to identify the most effective environment for promoting symmetrical gait patterns. Each session will last approximately two hours. The equipment used is non-invasive, and the risk to participants is minimal.

Eligibility

Min Age: 20 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying a behavioral approach called Mechanical Resistance (Pelvis and/or Ankle) depending on participant's walking capacity, a behavioral approach called Sensory Feedback Training, and others for people with feedback, gait training, and other related conditions. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location. People eligible for this study include aged 20 Years and older.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

BEHAVIORALTreadmill Walking with Split-Belt and/or Tied-Belt Conditions

Participants will walk on an instrumented treadmill under split-belt and/or tied-belt conditions depending on their walking capacity. The belt speeds will be adjusted to facilitate locomotor adaptation and evaluate propulsion symmetry.

BEHAVIORALMechanical Resistance (Pelvis and/or Ankle) depending on participant's walking capacity

Participants will walk on a treadmill (Split-belt and/or Tied-belt) with backward-directed resistance applied at the pelvis, ankle, or both. The resistance is used to challenge paretic leg propulsion and assess adaptive gait responses.

BEHAVIORALSensory Feedback Training

Real-time feedback-visual, auditory, or combined-will be provided based on the propulsive force generated during split-belt and/or tied-belt treadmill walking, with or without mechanical resistance.