The influence of balance support on the metabolic cost of walking in stroke patients during overground and treadmill walking

Abstract

Results: The (modified) RVGA showed most improvement in the items foot positioning at initial contact and varus of the foot during swing. The results of the FAAM demonstrated an improvement in the ability to walk on uneven surface and walking up and down stairs. Walking speed did not improve on average, with high variability between subjects. No surgical or post operative complications were reported. Discussion and conclusions: A combination of surgical interventions to correct deformities of both the foot and toes seems a satisfying alternative treatment when an AFO is inadequate to correct the foot deformity or patient satisfaction with orthotic use is low. Improvement is most evident when negotiating uneven terrain and stairs. Knowledge of muscle functioning and dynamics is necessary to decide on the choice and extensiveness of the surgical interventions.