Musculoskeletal Problems in Lower Extremity after Stroke

ABSTRACT

Stroke is a leading cause of disability in the elderly. Among complications of stroke, musculoskeletal problems are common, thereby causing improper gait biomechanics, development of pain, and limitation in performing activities of daily living. Post-stroke hip fractures and greater trochanteric pain syndrome are common complication near hip joint. Knee osteoarthritis can be accelerated by altered biomechanics of post-stroke period, that is associated with ambulation levels. Stiff knee gait and genu recurvatum can be developed after stroke and usually contribute to abnormal gait patterns, due to weakness or spasticity of various muscles, and they need to control or compensate affected muscle activities. In case of ankle and foot problems, foot varus deformity is caused by imbalance between muscles that control ankle movement, while claw toes and the persistent extension of the great toe are mainly due to overactivity of muscles that moves toes, and mainstay of treatment is to control inappropriate activities of affected muscles. It is important to make the exact therapeutic decision and establish the rehabilitation plan through the early evaluation of lower extremity musculoskeletal problems that affect the mobility and ambulation.