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
Who can join
Ages 20 and older · All sexes · Healthy volunteers welcome
Full eligibility criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Aged 20 years or older For stroke group: clinical diagnosis of stroke at least 1 month prior to participation Ability to walk at least 10 meters with or without assistive devices For healthy group: able to walk independently without assistive devices Exclusion Criteria: Life expectancy less than one year Comatose or unable to follow three-step commands Amputation of any lower limb Poorly controlled diabetes (e.g., foot ulceration) Blindness Progressive neurological disease Medically unstable condition Significant musculoskeletal impairments affecting gait Congestive heart failure or unstable angina Peripheral vascular disease Severe neuropsychiatric conditions (e.g., dementia, cognitive deficits, severe depression)
About the study
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.
What is being tested
- Treadmill Walking with Split-Belt and/or Tied-Belt Conditions (behavioral)
- Mechanical Resistance (Pelvis and/or Ankle) depending on participant's walking capacity (behavioral)
- Sensory Feedback Training (behavioral)
Sponsor: The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston · Participants: 30 · Started: Jul 25, 2025
Contact the study team
- Mansoo Ko, PhD · Phone: 409-747-1617
Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT07087769
Locations in the U.S.
| Texas | University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston |
Conditions
From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Oct 1, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.