A real-time visual feedback protocol to improve symmetry of spatiotemporal factors of gait in stroke survivors

摘要

Gait asymmetry, one of the hallmarks of post-stroke locomotion, often persists despite of gait rehabilitation interventions and negatively affects functional mobility. This pilot study examines the feasibility and instantaneous effects of real-time visual feedback provided in the form of a virtual avatar replicating on gait symmetry after stroke. Based on the results obtained from one chronic stroke survivor, step length and step time ratios were improved towards normal values (1.0) in presence of the avatar displayed in a third person back and paretic side view, while mixed results were observed for the front view condition. Gains were not maintained following the removal of the avatar. These preliminary results, to be confirmed in a larger sample of participants, support the feasibility of using virtual avatars as a source of visual feedback to promote gait symmetry in stroke survivors.