Exploiting Interlimb Arm and Leg Connections for Walking Rehabilitation: A Training Intervention in Stroke

Date

2016

Authors

Klarner, Taryn
Barss, Trevor
Sun, Yao
Kaupp, Chelsea
Loadman, Pamela M.
Zehr, E. Paul

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Neural Plasticity

Abstract

Rhythmic arm and leg (A&L) movements share common elements of neural control. The extent to which A&L cycling training can lead to training adaptations which transfer to improved walking function remains untested. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of A&L cycling training as a modality to improve locomotor function after stroke. Nineteen chronic stroke (>six months) participants were recruited and performed 30 minutes of A&L cycling training three times a week for five weeks. Changes in walking function were assessed with (1) clinical tests; (2) strength during isometric contractions; and (3) treadmill walking performance and cutaneous reflex modulation. A multiple baseline (3 pretests) within-subject control design was used. Data show that A&L cycling training improved clinical walking status increased strength by ~25%, improved modulation of muscle activity by ~25%, increased range of motion by ~20%, decreased stride duration, increased frequency, and improved modulation of cutaneous reflexes during treadmill walking. On most variables, the majority of participants showed a significant improvement in walking ability. These results suggest that exploiting arm and leg connections with A&L cycling training, an accessible and cost-effective training modality, could be used to improve walking ability after stroke.

Description

Clinical Study

Keywords

Citation

Klarner, T., Barss, T.S., Sun, Y., Kaupp, C., Loadman, P.M., & Zehr, E.P. (2014). Exploiting Interlimb Arm and Leg Connections for Walking Rehabilitation: A Training Intervention in Stroke. Neural Plasticity, Vol. 2016, Article ID 1517968.