Article

Although approximately one-third of stroke survivors suffer abnormal
foot posture and this can influence mobility, there is very little objective
information regarding the foot and ankle after stroke.
OBJECTIVE: As part of a
programme of research examining foot and ankle biomechanics after stroke, we
investigated multi-planar kinematics and the relationship with function. METHODS:
In a single assessment session, static foot posture (Foot Posture Index);
mobility limitations (Walking Handicap Scale) and multi-segment foot and ankle
kinematics during stance phase of walking were measured in 20 mobile chronic
stroke survivors and 15 sex and age-matched healthy volunteers. RESULTS: Compared
to the healthy volunteers, the stroke survivors demonstrated consistently reduced
range of motion across most segments and planes, increased pronation and reduced
supination, disruption of the rocker and the timing of joint motion. Changes in
pronation/supination were associated with limited walking ability. CONCLUSIONS:
This study provides evidence of structural and movement deficiencies in the
intrinsic foot segments affected by stroke. These would not have been detectable
using a single segment foot model. Data do not support common clinical practices
that focus on correction of sagittal ankle deformity and assumed excessive foot
supination. Some of these abnormalities were associated with limitation in
functional ability. Biomechanical abnormalities of foot and ankle are modifiable
and there is potential for clinical studies and future developments of
interventions to help prevent or treat these abnormalities which may improve
functional ability post stroke.
CI - Copyright (c) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS