Canes may not improve spatiotemporal parameters of walking after stroke: a systematic review of cross-sectional within-group experimental studies.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To examine whether using a cane would improve spatiotemporal parameters of walking, i.e., speed, stride length, cadence, and symmetry after stroke.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

Searches were conducted in eight databases. The experimental condition was walking with a cane. Four outcomes were of interest: walking speed, stride length, cadence, and symmetry.

RESULTS:

Twelve studies were included. Results from nine studies suggested that individuals with stroke walked 0.01 m/s (SD 0.06) slower with a single-point cane, compared with no cane. Two studies suggested a reduction in cadence (MD-5 steps/min, SD2) and an increase in stride length (MD 0.08 m, SD 0.01). Three studies suggested that individuals walked 0.06 m/s (SD 0.07) slower with a four-point cane, compared with no cane. Four studies suggested that individuals walked 0.06 m/s (SD 0.04) faster with a single- point cane compared with a four-point cane. Results regarding other outcomes were inconclusive.

CONCLUSIONS:

Results showed no worthwhile improvements in spatiotemporal parameters of walking with a single-point cane and a slight reduction with a four-point cane, compared with no cane. Individuals walked slightly faster with a single-point cane compared with a four-point cane, but the evidence is insufficient to support this superiority.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONA single-point cane may not improve spatiotemporal parameters of walking after stroke.Walking with a four-point cane may slightly decrease spatiotemporal parameters of walking.Canes may be prescribed without the fear of negatively impairing walking kinematics.

• Authors: Patrick R Avelino, Lucas R Nascimento, Kênia K P Menezes, Louise Ada, Luci F Teixeira-Salmela
• Journal: Disability and rehabilitation (Disabil Rehabil) Vol. 44 Issue 10 Pg. 1758-1765 (05 2022) ISSN: 1464-5165 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 32857674 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Systematic Review, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Canes
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Gait
• Humans
• Stroke
• Stroke Rehabilitation
• Walking