Article

The purpose of this case report was to describe the outcomes following the use of
kinesthetic feedback as a primary intervention strategy for gait training. The
plan of care for this 22-year-old female addressed the patient's social wellness
goal of "walking more normally," using motor learning principles. At initial
examination, the patient demonstrated asymmetries for gait kinematics between the
left and right lower extremity (analyzed using video motion analysis), pattern of
force distribution at the foot, and activation of specific lower extremity
muscles (as measured by surface electromyography). Interventions for this patient
consisted of neuromuscular and body awareness training, with an emphasis on
kinesthetic feedback. Weekly sessions lasted 30-60 minutes over 4 weeks. The
patient was prescribed a home program of walking 30-60 minutes three times/week
at a comfortable pace while concentrating on gait correction through kinesthetic
awareness of specific deviations. Following intervention, the patient's gait
improved across all objective measures. She reported receiving positive comments
from others regarding improved gait and a twofold increase in her walking
confidence. Outcomes support a broadened scope of practice that incorporates
previously unreported integration of a patient's social wellness goals into
patient management.

Langue : ANGLAIS