LONGITUDINAL EFFECTS OF BODY WEIGHT SUPPORTED GAIT TRAINING ON FUNCTIONAL GAIT RECOVERY AFTER STROKE: A PILOT RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Background: Restoring ambulatory function is a cornerstone of post-stroke rehabilitation. While Conventional Gait Training (CGT) remains the clinical standard, Body Weight Supported Gait Training (BWSGT) provides a high-repetition, task-specific environment that may enhance neuroplasticity. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and longitudinal trajectory of BWSGT versus CGT on functional gait stability in stroke survivors. Methods: Ten subjects were randomized into BWSGT (n=5) or CGT (n=5). Interventions were administered 3 sessions/week for 12 weeks. The Functional Gait Assessment (FGA) was utilized as the primary outcome measure, recorded at Baseline (Week 0), Week 4, Week 8, Week 12 (post-intervention), and Week 16 (follow-up). Results: Both groups demonstrated significant intra-group improvements by Week 12. However, at the 16-week follow up, the BWSGT group showed continued improvement (17.5 ± 2.7) compared to a plateau in the CGT group (14.3 ± 2.7), representing a statistically significant inter-group difference (p = 0.015). Conclusion: BWSGT is a feasible intervention that may offer superior long-term retention and "carry-over" effects compared to conventional methods, making it a robust tool for durable gait rehabilitation.