Effects of Curved-Path Gait Training on Gait Ability in Middle-Aged Patients with Stroke: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

(1) Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effects of curved-path stride gait training on the gait ability of patients with stroke. (2) Materials and Methods: Thirty patients with stroke were randomly assigned to curved-path stride gait training (n = 15) and general gait training groups (n = 15). Both groups underwent training for 30 min five times a week for 8 weeks. The gait ability of each was assessed using the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) test, 10-meter walk test, and Figure-of-8 walk test (F8WT). (3) Results: The curved-path gait training group showed significant differences in the DGI, TUG test, 10-m walk test, and F8WT pre- versus post- intervention (p < 0.05). The general gait training group showed no significant difference in F8WT pre- versus post-intervention (p > 0.05). Additionally, there was a statistically significant intergroup difference in gait ability (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Curved-path gait training resulted in greater improvement in gait ability than general gait training. Therefore, curved-path gait training can be a meaningful intervention for improving the gait ability of patients with stroke.