Impact of Gait Training on Lower Extremity Motor Function and Balance Performance in Stroke Survivors.

This randomized clinical trial evaluates and compares the effectiveness of three physiotherapy-based rehabilitation strategies in improving gait, motor function, balance, and independence in individuals recovering from stroke. Stroke survivors often face challenges such as impaired walking, weak lower limbs, and poor postural control. Combining targeted interventions such as Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) and Conventional Physical Therapy (CPT) may enhance functional outcomes. Ninety-nine participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Group A received Gait Training with PNF. Group B received Gait Training with Conventional Physiotherapy. Group C received a hybrid intervention combining PNF and Conventional Physiotherapy. All interventions were delivered over 12 weeks, in 45-minute sessions conducted three times per week. Assessments were conducted at baseline, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks post-intervention. The study used validated tools to measure progress in walking quality (Wisconsin Gait Scale - WGS), lower limb motor recovery (Fugl-Meyer Assessment - FMA-LE), balance (Berg Balance Scale - BBS), and daily functional ability (Functional Independence Measure - FIM). To enable in-depth analysis, six outcome domains were created by combining different pairs of these tools: A1: WGS + FMA-LE + FIM + BBS (overall recovery) A2: WGS + BBS (gait and balance) A3: WGS + FMA-LE (gait and motor recovery) A4: BBS + FMA-LE (balance and motor recovery) A5: WGS + FIM (gait and functional independence) A6: BBS + FIM (balance and independence) This study aims to identify the most effective rehabilitation strategy among the three to support physical recovery and improve independence in post-stroke individuals.