Effects of Asymmetrical Weight Bearing during Straight and Circular Walking in Hemiplegic Patients

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare and analyze the difference of weight bearing between affected and intact feet during straight or circular walking in hemiplegic patients. METHOD: 16 hemiplegic patients who could walk without assistive devices were included in this study. We used insole foot-pressure system to measure weight bearing ratio of both feet during walking. We assessed walking speed and pressure ratio during straight or circular walking at their comfortable gait speed. RESULT: Pressure ratio of affected foot showed negative correlation with walking time irrespective of walking direction. Pressure ratio of affected foot and walking time during circular walking to the affected side was significantly higher and slower respectively than that to the intact side. CONCLUSION: Asymmetrical weight bearing of both feet during walking is highly correlated with walking ability in hemiplegic patients and pressure ratio of affected foot may be simple and useful determinant of walking ability.

Evaluation of Standing Balance in Hemiplegic Patients Using the Functional Reach Test

OBJECTIVE: To examine the validity of the fuctional reach test (FRT) for evaluation of standing balance in hemiplegic patients. METHOD: Twenty three hemiplegic patients who were capable of standing without assistive devices were assessed on the FRT only with intact upper limb, the one-legged stance, the timed up and go test (TUG), the 10 meter walking time (10 mWT), the 'Hauser' ambulation index (AI), and the standing balance of Bohannon. RESULTS: The forward reach of FRT demonstrated significant correlation with the TUG and the 10 mWT (p<0.01), but no significant relationship with the one-legged stance, standing balance of Bohannon and AI. CONCLUSION: The forward reach of FRT may be simple and useful tool for assessing the clinical balance function and reflecting gait ability and fall-down risk in hemiplegic patients.