Mobility and Leg Recovery Following Stroke and Other Neurological Injuries
NeuroRehab Team
Friday, August 2nd, 2019
BiofeedbackBody Weight SupportContracture SplintElectrical StimulationExercise AidsFoot Drop BraceLegLeg BikeMobilityNeuroplasticityRoboticsVirtual Reality
One of the most common impairments resulting from stroke is paralysis, which can affect a portion or the entire side of the body. Problems with body posture, walking, and balance can be significant. Two thirds of the patients are unable to walk without assistance in the first week after stroke (Jorgensen HS et al. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 1995). Approximately 35% of survivors with initial paralysis of the leg do not regain useful walking function (Hendricks HT et al. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2002). Although 65% to 85% of stroke survivors learn to walk independently by 6 months post stroke, gait abnormalities and poor endurance persists through the chronic stages of the condition (Wade DT et al. Scand J Rehabil Med, 1987).
It is true that recovering from a stroke will be an uphill battle for many, however, it is also accurate that the latest research findings regarding neuro recovery are more promising than ever before. Listed below are some of the common interventions supported by research that have shown positive results.
Mobility and Leg Research Findings
- Exercise and cardiovascular training using equipment like an Exercise Aid or Leg Bike are beneficial for stroke patients.
- Electrical Stimulation and EMG-Triggered Stimulation can improve walking ability.
- Electrical Stimulation can reduce spasticity.
- Lower Limb Robot-Assisted Therapy Device can improve functional walking performance.
- A Foot Drop Brace can improve ambulation.
- A Lower Limb Contracture Splint can prevent ankle contracture.
- Virtual Reality/Exercise Games and Biofeedback may enhance gait performance.
- Balance training may be beneficial to stroke patients.
- Gait training (i.e., treadmill training) with Body Weight Support can be beneficial.
- Mental practice (rehearsing tasks mentally) can be beneficial for transfers and mobility.
- Botulinum Toxin (Botox) decreases spasticity and increases range of motion.
What Do These Interventions Mean?
Leg Bike
A Leg Bike is a stationary cycle designed to strengthen and condition the lower body, as well as the cardiovascular system, by using the legs.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback or electromyography (EMG) is a non-invasive technique used for measuring muscle electrical activity that occurs during muscle contraction and relaxation.
Electrical Stimulation
Electrical stimulation or neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a technique used to elicit a muscle contraction using electrical impulses. Electrical current is then sent from the unit to the electrodes and delivered into the muscle causing a contraction.
Find Electrical Stimulation Devices
EMG-Triggered Stimulation
EMG-Triggered Stimulation is based on the user’s voluntary movement, or intent to move. Electrodes, controlled by a unit, are placed on the skin over a specific area. Once the user attempts to contract his or her muscles and reaches the prescribed threshold, stimulation is triggered (delivered) to the same muscles. Various visual and auditory feedback options monitor the progress.
Find EMG-Triggered Stim Devices
Exercise Aid
An Exercise Aid is a piece of equipment used during physical activity to improve strength and coordination of the body region targeted.
Foot Drop Brace
A Foot Drop Brace is a rigid or flexible support that offers dynamic or static assistance to the weakened foot so functional mobility and exercises can be possible.
Body Weight Support
Body Weight Support uses a suspension system and a harness to support a percentage of the user’s body weight during standing, walking or exercise.
Find Body Weight Support Devices
Lower Limb Robot-Assisted Therapy
Lower Limb Robot-Assisted Therapy consists of an electromechanical device, designed for the leg, that is used to assist users (through powered mobility) with exercise training and activities of daily living (ADL).
Find Lower Limb Robot-Assisted Therapy
Virtual Reality/Exercise Games
Virtual Reality/Exercise Games consists of computer-based, interactive exercise games and activities that allow players to engage in entertaining tasks while being physically challenged. These games rely on technology that tracks body movements or reactions. Some advanced games allow users to set goals, grade and customize, receive instantaneous feedback, reinforce behaviors, and record and analyze results.
Find Virtual Reality/Exercise Gaming Devices
