Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Neuromuscular and Neurosurgery

Background:Gait disturbances can cause substantial impairmentto the quality of life in stroke patients.The aim of this studyis to determine the effect of reciprocal pedaling exercise on cortical reorganizationand its consequences on the spatiotemporal parameters of gait in stroke patients. Methods:Forty ischemic strokemale patients with age ranging from 45 to 60 years. They were assigned randomly into two equal groups; control group (G1) and study group (G2). G1 treated by a design physical therapy program and G2 treated by the same program in addition to reciprocal pedaling exercise. Treatment was conducted three times per week for ten weeks. The cortical reorganization was assessed by the quantitative electroencephalogram (QEEG).The spatiotemporal parameters of gait were assessed by the Biodexgait trainer 2TM and timed ten meters walking test. Results: There were a significant increase of cortical reorganization over midline central and frontal areas (Cz&Fz) and a non significant over midline parietal area (Pz)in the study group as comparedto the control group. A significant increase in the mean values of ten meters walking test and all tests of Biodex gait trainer 2TM except step length of the affected sideand percentage of time on the non and affected foot in the study group as comparedto the control group. Conclusion: Reciprocal pedaling exercise has a positive effect on cortical reorganizationand consequences on improving gait parameters in stroke patients

Issued also as CD