Effect of Upper Extremity Support on Spatiotemporal Parameters of Gait in Individuals With Stroke
Recruiting now · Not applicable
Conditions studied: Stroke
In brief
Purpose: The primary goal of this study is to investigate how different levels of upper extremity (arm) support affect walking patterns in individuals who have experienced a stroke. Specifically, the research aims to determine how restricting or facilitating arm swing during walking modulates spatiotemporal gait parameters (such as speed, step length, and rhythm). Background: Arm swing plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, stability, and energy efficiency during normal walking. Following a stroke, many patients use walking aids (like canes or walkers) or clinical supports (like parallel bars) that restrict natural arm movement. This study examines whether these restrictions significantly alter gait mechanics in the stroke population. Methodology: Participants will participate in a cross-over experimental trial. Each participant will walk on a specialized treadmill system (C-Mill VR+) under three randomized conditions: 1. Unsupported walking (no arm support), 2. Single-arm support (using the non-paretic side), 3. Dual-arm support (using both arms). Researchers will record gait speed, step length, cadence, and duration of stance/swing phases for each condition. Expected Outcome: The findings will provide scientific evidence on how different support strategies modulate walking performance. This information will help physical therapists design more effective, individualized rehabilitation programs to improve mobility and quality of life for stroke survivors.
Key facts
- Study ID
- NCT07496853
- Run by
- Ankara Yildirim Beyazıt University
- People needed
- 34
- Starts
- 2026-04-01
- Expected to finish
- 2026-12-31
- Last updated by the study team
- 2026-03-27
Who can join
Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.
You may qualify if…
- Diagnosis of hemiplegia with ICD-10 code G.81.
- Presence of unilateral hemiplegia.
- No medical contraindications for the use of assistive devices (e.g., cane, tripod).
- Aged 18 years or older.
- Ability to walk for at least 2 consecutive minutes.
You may not qualify if…
- Presence of aphasia.
- Recurrent stroke.
- Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score below 10 points.
Where it is running
- Ankara Bilkent City Hospital — Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye) (enrolling)
Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov
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