The effect of a single textured insole in gait rehabilitation of individuals with stroke

Abstract

Rehabilitation interventions designed to restore gait symmetry in individuals with stroke are not always effective. The goal was to evaluate the long-term effect of using a single textured insole in gait rehabilitation. Ten individuals with stroke who showed asymmetrical stance were randomly divided into two groups and participated in physical therapy. Individuals in the experimental group received a 6-week physical therapy while being provided with a textured insole in the shoe on the unaffected side. Individuals in the control group received a 6-week physical therapy only. Both groups underwent a battery of identical tests before the start of the rehabilitation intervention, following its completion, and 4 months after the end of therapy. After the intervention, weight bearing (WB) on the affected side and gait velocity increased in the experimental group (P<0.05) to a larger degree compared with the control group. Moreover, symmetry of gait was increased in the experimental group (P<0.05). Improvements in WB, gait velocity, and symmetry of gait were maintained in the experimental group after the end of 4-month retention period. The study outcome revealed that a 6-week intervention involving a single textured insole could result in a long-lasting improvement of gait velocity, symmetry of WB, and gait in individuals with stroke.