This study investigated the effect of dual-task walking on real-time brain activation and gait performance in stroke patients. This study investigated the effect of dual-task walking on real-time brain activation and gait performance in stroke patients.
20 stroke patients and 20 healthy adults participated and performed single-task(ST), cognitive-task(CT), and motor-task(MT)walking with comfortable speed. A wireless electroencephalogram (EEG) instrument recorded real-time brain activations and gait variables including velocity, cadence, step length, stride length, single limb support, and double-limb support measured using a gait analysis system. Out of 19 sensor points used to record EEG, 8 sensor points(FP1, FP2, C3, Cz, C4, F3, Fz, and F4) including the prefrontal, premotor, primary motor cortex, and supplementary motor area were mainly noted in 4 waves of brain activation.
Significant differences were found for each task in relative alpha waves at F3 and C3, relative beta waves at FP1 and C3, and brain activity at F3 and C3 in the affected side of stroke patients. On the other hand, in the healthy adults, significant differences were found for each task at FP2, F4, C3, and C4 in relative alpha waves, FP1, FP2, and Fz in relative beta waves, F4, C4 in attention, and C4 points in brain activity. In gait variables, the healthy adults showed significant differences in all gait variables, but the stroke patients showed significance only in cadence.
This study suggested that cognitive-task and motor-task walking can affect real-time brain activation, especially in the premotor, primary motor cortex, and supplementary motor areas on the affected side of stroke patients.
The findings of this study can be used in a training program to improve the cognitive and walking abilities of stroke patients and will help them lead independent daily lives.
Motor area
Electroencephalography
