What percentage of chronic stroke participants had musculoskeletal adverse events during walking training?
Moderate- to high-intensity walking training is a standard way to improve walking ability after a stroke, but it can cause musculoskeletal problems. Research shows that roughly one-third of people with chronic stroke have these issues during such programs.
What the research says
In a study of 100 people with chronic stroke, musculoskeletal adverse events occurred in 32.0% of participants during a 12-week walking training program 3. The researchers looked at many baseline factors, such as orthopedic history and pre-existing pain, to see who might be at higher risk 3.
Other trials focused on different types of balance or movement training. One study tested reactive balance training over six weeks and found no increase in anxiety or slips, but it did not report a specific percentage of musculoskeletal adverse events 1. Another trial used modified constraint-induced movement therapy with trunk restraint for six weeks and reported significant improvements in function without mentioning musculoskeletal adverse event rates 2.
A separate study tested dance interventions for 12 weeks and found improvements in quality of life and cognitive function, but it did not track musculoskeletal adverse events 4. The clearest data on adverse event rates comes from the walking training study, which identified 32% as the occurrence rate 3.
What to ask your doctor
- What is my personal risk for musculoskeletal adverse events during walking training?
- Which baseline factors, like past orthopedic conditions or pain, increase my risk?
- What signs should I watch for that suggest I am having a musculoskeletal adverse event?
- Are there lower-intensity walking options that might reduce my risk of injury?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Physical Medicine & Rehab and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.