Dual-Task Exercise Improves Walking Ability in Chronic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Yang YR, Wang RY, Chen YC, Kao MJ. Dual-task exercise improves walking ability in chronic stroke: a randomized controlled trial.ObjectiveTo examine the effectiveness of a dual-task–based exercise program on walking ability in subjects with chronic stroke.DesignSingle-blind randomized controlled trial.SettingGeneral community.ParticipantsTwenty-five subjects with chronic stroke who were at least limited community ambulatory subjects (a minimum gait velocity, 58cm/s).InterventionsParticipants were randomized into a control group (n=12) or experimental group (n=13). Subjects in the control group did not receive any rehabilitation training. Subjects in the experimental group underwent a 4-week ball exercise program.Main Outcome MeasuresGait performance was measured under single task (preferred walking) and tray-carrying task. Gait parameters of interest were walking speed, cadence, stride time, stride length, and temporal symmetry index.ResultsThe experimental group showed significant improvement in all selected gait measures except for temporal symmetry index under both task conditions. In the control group, there were no significant changes over the 4-week period for all selected measures. There was a significant difference between groups for all selected gait variables except for temporal symmetry index under both task conditions.ConclusionsThe dual-task–based exercise program is feasible and beneficial for improving walking ability in subjects with chronic stroke.