Effects of handrail hold and light touch on energetics, step parameters, and neuromuscular activity during walking after stroke

Conclusion:
Handrail hold, but not light touch, altered step parameters and was accompanied by a global reduction in muscle activity, with improved timing constancy. This suggests that the use of a handrail allows for a more economic step pattern that requires less muscular activation without resulting in substantial neuromuscular re-organization. Handrail use may thus have beneficial effects on gait economy after stroke, which cannot be accomplished through enhanced somatosensory input alone.

Source: Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation - August 23, 2015 Category: Rehabilitation Authors: T. IJmkerC. LamothH. HoudijkM. TolsmaL. van der WoudeA. DaffertshoferP. Beek Source Type: research