Article

The purpose of this study was to explore and compare foot and ankle
characteristics in people with stroke and healthy controls; and between stroke
fallers and non-fallers. METHODS: Participants were recruited from community
groups and completed standardized tests assessing sensation, foot posture, foot
function, ankle dorsiflexion and first metatarsal phalangeal joint range of
motion (1st MPJ ROM), hallux valgus presence and severity. RESULTS: Twenty-three
stroke participants (mean age 75.09 +/- 7.57 years; 12 fallers) and 16 controls
(mean age 73.44 +/- 8.35 years) took part. Within the stroke group, reduced 1st
MPJ sensation (p = 0.016) and 1st MPJ ROM (p = 0.025) were observed in the
affected foot in comparison to the non-affected foot; no other differences were
apparent. Pooled data (for both feet) was used to explore between stroke/control
(n = 78 feet) and stroke faller/non-faller (n = 46 feet) group differences. In
comparison to the control group, stroke participants exhibited reduced sensation
of the 1st MPJ (p = 0.020), higher Foot Posture Index scores (indicating greater
foot pronation, p = 0.008) and reduced foot function (p = 0.003). Stroke fallers
exhibited significantly greater foot pronation in comparison to non-fallers (p =
0.027). CONCLUSIONS: Results indicated differences in foot and ankle
characteristics post stroke in comparison to healthy controls. These changes may
negatively impact functional ability and the ability to preserve balance. Further
research is warranted to explore the influence of foot problems on balance
ability and falls in people with stroke. Implications for Rehabilitation Foot
problems are common post stroke. As foot problems have been linked to increased
fall risk among the general population we recommend that it would be beneficial
to include foot and ankle assessments or a referral to a podiatrist for people
with stroke who report foot problems. Further research is needed to explore if we
can improve functional performance post stroke and reduce fall risk if treatment
or prevention of foot problems can be included in stroke rehabilitation.

Langue : ANGLAIS