Improving interlimb coordination following stroke: How can we change how people walk (and why should we)?

Abstract

A frequent and debilitating consequence of stroke is hemiparesis – a weakness on one side of the body – which contributes to asymmetric interlimb coordination during walking. Such asymmetries have been associated with decreased gait efficiency, which may prevent or limit the return to school, work, and the community. Here, we discuss several approaches to gait rehabilitation that have been shown to reduce interlimb coordination asymmetries post-stroke. We also present counterarguments and discuss whether retraining symmetry poststroke is optimal for achieving gains in functional mobility. Overall, while it is possible to alter interlimb coordination following stroke, it is still not entirely certain that we should.