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Student Research Project
- Biomechancs of Gait Training using Harness-Supported Treadmill
Walking - Our overall objective is to understand the mechanical assistance
provided by the harness and treadmill during gait training using
harness-supported treadmill walking, so that training variables (body weight
support, treadmill speed, and other variables) can be selected in a rational
manner for persons with post-stroke hemiplegia. We hypothesize that the changes
in gait mechanics with different selection of training variables are
appreciable, vary between neurologically impaired subjects, and are commonly
misunderstood, which can mislead the development and evaluation of gait
training approaches. Gait mechanics during training are important because the
practice of abnormal gait mechanics compromises task-specificity such that
learning may not transfer to overground walking. This study will use
biomechanical models, computer simulations, and experimental measurements on
subjects with post-stroke hemiplegia to test this hypothesis and provide a
theoretical basis for the selection of training variables to better address the
needs of the patient, the therapist, and the rehabilitation objectives.
PhD Oral Defense
- Treadmill training with harness support: A biomechanical basis for
selection of training parameters for individuals with post-stroke
hemiparesis - Treadmill training with harness support is a promising,
task-oriented approach to restoring locomotor ability in individuals with
post-stroke hemiparesis, but a scientific basis for the proper selection of
training parameters is needed. The goal of this dissertation is to provide a
biomechanical basis for the selection of training parameters (i.e., body weight
support, treadmill speed, support stiffness, and handrail hold) to improve the
gait pattern exhibited by hemiparetic individuals during treadmill training. By
comparing gait characteristics of hemiparetic and non-disabled individuals
during treadmill walking at matched speeds, non-speed-related gait deviations
were identified that were consistent with impaired swing initiation and
compromised weight acceptance in the paretic limb and related compensatory
strategies. The adjustment of each training parameter during treadmill walking
was found to improve a specific set of gait deviations associated with
post-stroke hemiparesis. With increased body weight support or the addition of
handrail hold, deviations in leg kinetic energy at toe-off and percentage swing
time in the non-paretic limb were reduced, resulting in improved temporal
symmetry and increased single limb support time on the paretic limb. With
increased treadmill speed, inadequate leg kinetic energy at toe-off in the
paretic limb was improved but remained low relative to values in the
non-paretic limb. With increased support stiffness, deviations in energy cost
associated with raising the trunk during pre-swing and swing of the paretic
limb were improved. We conclude that the proper selection of training
parameters can improve the gait pattern exhibited by individuals with
post-stroke hemiparesis during treadmill training. These actions, ostensibly,
may improve treatment outcome.
Prior Years' Projects
2004
2003
2002
Last updated 04/03/2006
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