Front Panel Painting “LIFE” By William T Chua MD

B. Gait, Balance and Mobility
1. Electrostimulation
• May be effective for some patients with specific problems, when delivered
in a specific way such as in patients with drop-foot, where the aim of
treatment is the immediate improvement of walking speed and/or
efficiency.
Level of evidence: C
• Functional electrical simulation may be considered as a treatment for
drop-foot, where the aim of treatment is the immediate improvement of
walking speed and/or efficiency.
2. Muscle strengthening
• It is beneficial at improving muscle strength but insufficient evidence to
determine relationship between muscle strength and functional outcome.
Level of evidence: B
• Muscle strength training is recommended when the specific aim of
treatment is to improve muscle strength.
3. Ankle foot orthosis
• There is a positive impact of ankle foot orthosis on outcomes of walking
speed, efficiency and gait pattern and weight bearing during stance
Level of evidence: C
• Where the aim of treatments is to have an immediate improvement on
walking speed, efficiency or gait pattern or weight bearing during stance,
patents should be as assessed efficiency.
4. Walking aids
• Should be considered only after a full assessment of the potential benefits
and harms of the walking aid in relation to the individual patient’s stage of
recovery and presentation.
• The use of a cane if indicated should be used on the unaffected side.
5. Treadmill training
• It may be used to increase gait speed among people who are independent
in walking at the start of treatment.
Level of evidence: B
• Treadmill training may be considered to improve gait speed in people who
are independent in walking at the start of treatment.
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Stroke Unit
Nurse-Rehab