Locomotor imagery training improves gait performance in people with chronic hemiparetic stroke: a controlled clinical trial.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether locomotor imagery training leads to clinical improvements in gait after stroke.


METHODS
Pretest-posttest matched control design.


METHODS
A total of 24 people with chronic hemiparetic stroke (13 for experimental and 11 for control) were recruited in this study.


METHODS
The subjects in the experimental group participated in videotape-based locomotor imagery training five days a week for four weeks. They also conducted regular physical therapy.


METHODS
Kinematic gait parameters were collected using a three-dimensional motion analysis system. Functional gait performance was assessed using clinical measures: Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, Berg Balance Test, Dynamic Gait Index and modified Emory Functional Ambulation Profile.


RESULTS
After training, walking velocity increased 0.07 +/- 0.06 m/s in the experimental group and 0.01 +/- 0.07 m/s in the control group. In the experimental group, the affected and less affected limb stride lengths increased by 0.09 +/- 0.12 m and 0.10 +/- 0.07 m respectively, whereas in the control group they decreased by 0.00 +/- 0.04 m and increased by 0.02 +/- 0.06 m, respectively. Kinematic parameters in the lower extremity joints during walking were more improved after the training in the experimental group. Confidence in balance, postural control, dynamic balance and performance time for different environmental walking situations were also improved more in the experimental group.


CONCLUSIONS
Locomotor imagery training can be considered as a useful option for restoration of ambulation for individuals with chronic hemiparetic stroke who are unable to participate in physical gait training.
Hwang
Sujin
S
Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of South Korea.
Jeon
Hye-Seon
HS
Yi
Chung-hwi
CH
Kwon
Oh-yun
OY
Cho
Sang-hyun
SH
You
Sung-hyun
SH
D001296:Audiovisual Aids; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D020233:Gait Disorders, Neurologic / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010291:Paresis; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D016138:Walking