Article

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a 20-min gait training session using the
Lokomat(R) combined with a negative kinematic constraint on the non-paretic limb
and a positive kinematic constraint on the paretic limb, on peak knee flexion and
other biomechanical parameters in chronic hemiparetic subjects. DESIGN:
Preliminary study, before-after design. SUBJECTS: Fifteen hemiparetic subjects.
METHODS: Subjects were evaluated using 3-dimensional gait analysis before,
immediately after the end of the training, and after a 20-min rest period. The
positive constraint increased the range of motion of the paretic limb (hip and
knee), while the negative constraint reduced the range of motion of the
non-paretic limb (hip and knee). RESULTS: Peak knee flexion and other, kinematic,
kinetic and spatiotemporal, parameters were significantly improved following the
training session. These positive effects occurred predominantly in the paretic
limb. Moreover, there was no worsening of biomechanical parameters of the
non-paretic limb despite the use of negative constraint on this limb. These
effects persisted for at least 20 min following the end of the gait training
session. CONCLUSION: This type of training may be effective to improve gait in
hemiparetic patients. A larger investigation of the training programme is
justified.

Langue : ANGLAIS