The Relationship between Gait Velocity and Walking Pattern in Hemiplegic Patients

Abstract: Background Gait speed represents a functional predictor and an impairment severity index in stroke survivors; gait analysis parameters are descriptors of walking strategies used to compensate for the muscle impairment such as vaulting, circumduction and hip hiking. The aim of this study was to assess if there is a relationship between the gait compensatory strategy and gait speed of progression. Methods A sample of 30 patients with post-stroke hemiparesis was assessed for gait compensatory patterns through gait analysis and videorecording. BMI, pain-VAS, Barthel Index, Nottingham Extended ADL Scale, Motricity Index, lower limb muscles strength and aROMs were also included in the assessment. Results In 19 patients it was possible to identify one or more compensatory strategies; in 11 patients no specific gait pattern was found. The vaulting and hip hiking combined gait strategy had an effect on gait speed. Gait speed was directly related to Barthel Index, Nottingham Extended ADL Scale, Motricity Index of the paretic side and in particular with quadriceps and iliopsoas strength and hip extension aROM. Gender, age and paretic side did not influence gait speed. Conclusion Compensatory gait strategies influence gait speed but studies with larger sample size are needed to better highlight their impact.