Effects of a Provision of a Cane After Stroke
Stroke
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Stroke focused on measuring Stroke, Assistive devices, Gait, Rehabilitation, Clinical trial
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- People with stroke will be eligible if they are >6 months after the onset of their first stroke,
- >20 years of age,
- Able to walk at least 14 meters, independently, walk with a speed ≤0.8 m/s or less, and
- Are naïve to use any assistive device.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Individuals with cognitive impairments, double hemiparesis, or any other non-stroke related conditions.
Sites / Locations
- Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais
- NeuroGroup Laboratory
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Other
Provision of a cane
Control
The experimental group will receive a single-point cane, with ergonomic handgrip, which will be individually adjusted to the participant's height. A physiotherapist will provide instructions on how to walk with the cane and the participants will practice for about 15 minutes or until they feel comfortable with the device. Then, they will take the cane home and will be instructed to use it all the time during locomotion. Weekly, they will receive a phone call, to ensure that they are using the cane and to clarify any doubts. A home visit may be conducted, if necessary.
The control group will be instructed to to perform stretching of the lower limb muscles daily and keep their daily activities, without the use of a cane. They will also receive weekly phone calls, to ensure similar level of attention to that of the the participants in the experimental group.