Changes in center of pressure displacement with the use of a foot drop stimulator in individuals with stroke

• Center of pressure displacement during walking was measured with and without a foot drop stimulator.
• Participants were individuals with foot drop secondary to stroke and healthy controls.
• Center of pressure progression within the sub phases of stance was used to evaluate changes in gait mechanics and gait quality.
• For individuals with stroke, a foot drop stimulator can improve forward progression and stability.

BackgroundCenter of pressure measured during gait can provide information about underlying control mechanisms and the efficacy of a foot drop stimulator. This investigation evaluated changes in center of pressure displacement in individuals with stroke with and without a foot drop stimulator.MethodsIndividuals with stroke-related foot drop (n = 11) using a foot drop stimulator and healthy controls (n = 11). Walking speed and bilateral center of pressure variables: 1) net displacement; 2) position and maximum displacement; and 3) mean velocity during walking.FindingsOn the affected limb with the foot drop stimulator as compared to the affected limb without the foot drop stimulator: 1) increased anterior/posterior maximum center of pressure excursion 8% during stance; 2) center of pressure at initial contact was 6% more posterior; 3) medial/lateral mean, maximum and minimum center of pressure position during stance all significantly decreased; 4) anterior/posterior net displacement increased during stance and single support; and 5) anterior/posterior velocity of the center of pressure increased during stance.InterpretationIndividuals with stroke using a foot drop stimulator contacted the ground more posterior at initial contact and utilized more of the anterior/posterior plantar surface of the foot on the affected limb during stance. With the foot drop stimulator there was a shift in center of pressure toward the medial side possibly indicating an improvement in equinovarus gait where there is a tendency to load the lateral foot throughout stance. For individuals with stroke a foot drop stimulator can improve displacement of the center of pressure which indicates improved forward progression and stability during walking.