Article

Turning is an integral component of independent mobility in which
stroke survivors frequently fall.
This study sought to measure the
effects of competing cognitive demands on the stepping patterns of stroke
survivors, compared to healthy age-match adults, during turning as a putative
mechanism for falls. METHODS: Walking and turning (90 degrees ) was assessed
under single (walking and turning alone) and dual task (subtracting serial 3s
while walking and turning) conditions using an electronic, pressure-sensitive
walkway. Dependent measures were time to turn, variability in time to turn, step
length, step width and single support time during three steps of the turn.
Turning ability in single and dual task conditions was compared between stroke
survivors (n=17, mean +/- SD: 59 +/- 113 months post-stroke, 64 +/- 10 years of
age) and age-matched healthy counterparts (n=15). RESULTS: Both groups took
longer, were more variable, tended to widen the second step and, crucially,
increased single support time on the inside leg of the turn while turning and
distracted. CONCLUSIONS: Increased single support time during turning may
represent biomechanical mechanism, within stepping patterns of turning under
distraction, for increased risk of falls for both stroke survivors and older
adults.
CI - Crown Copyright (c) 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS