Distinct ground reaction forces in gait between the paretic and non-paretic leg of stroke patients: A paradigm for innovative physiotherapy intervention

Abstract

This case report study aims to identify the differences in the ground reaction forces (GRF) placed on the forefoot, hindfoot, and entire foot between the paretic and non-paretic legs in two stroke patients to identify potential targets for improved physiotherapy treatment. A digital gait analysis foot pressure insole was fitted inside the participants’ shoes to measure the percentage of body weight taken during the stance phase, and the vertical GRF of the two subjects are reported in this paper. Both patients presented noteworthy differences in gait parameters individually and between their paretic and non-paretic legs. The trend shows a decreased percentage of body weight on the paretic forefoot and hindfoot, although the percentage bodyweight placed on the entire foot remained similar in both feet. The gait patterns shown were highly individual and indicated that both legs were affected to some degree. These findings identify key motion targets for an improved physiotherapy treatment following a stroke, suggesting that physiotherapy treatment should be targeted and individually tailored and should include both extremities.