F146. Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on gait of stroke patients

Abstract

Introduction Stroke is the most leading cause to functional disability and gait problems. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on selected gait kinematics in stroke patients. Methods Thirty male stroke patients participated in this study. The patients were assigned randomly into two equal groups (study and control). Patients in the study group received Anodal tDCS in addition to selected physical therapy program for stroke patients. Patients in the control group received selected physical therapy program only including: strengthening exercises, stretching exercises, weight bearing, balance exercises and gait training. The Outcome Measures: Biodex gait trainer 2 TM was used to assess selected gait kinematics (step cycle, walking speed) before and after four weeks training period (end of treatment) for both groups. Results There was a statistically significant increase in walking speed and step cycle in both group. The improvement in gait parameters post treatment was significantly higher in the study group compared to the control group Conclusion Transcranial direct current stimulation is effective in improving selected gait kinematics in stroke patients when added to the selected physical therapy program.