Comparison of Todd-Davies and Brunnstrom techniques on hemiparetic gait

Cerebrovasculary accident or stroke is one of the most disabling causes in the elderly. Its treatment in the chronic state is mostly restricted with rehabilitation facilities. Generally it is supposed that the hemiparetic patient would not achieve remarkable functional gains after 6 months - 1 year poststroke. However several investigations have recently shown that functional improvement is possible even several years after CVA. Our study was planned in order to research the effects of Todd-Davies and Brunnstrom techniques on gait, which is considered to be an important task for independency in chronic hemiparetic patients. Therefore, 26 patients coming to Dokuz Eylül University Department of Neurology or School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, at least 6 months poststroke and who were able to stand independently were randomly divided into two groups. One group received the Todd-Davies Technique, to the other group the Brunnstrom Technique was applied. The patients were assessed before and after treatment means the Barthel and Frenchay Activity Index, temporo-spatial parameters of gait and a visual gait analysis evaluated with the Wisconsin Gait Scale. All data were analysed with appropriate statistical calculations. Both groups showed improvement in gait symmetry, velocity and weight bearing on the affected side. It has been concluded that combined techniques would be more useful in improving function in chronic hemiparetic patients. Key words: Hemiparesis, rehabilitation, gait training