Ambulation training with and without partial weightbearing after traumatic brain injury: results of a randomized, controlled trial

Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2006 Jan;85(1):68-74. doi: 10.1097/01.phm.0000193507.28759.37.

Abstract

Objective: To test the hypothesis that 8 wks of partial weight-bearing gait retraining improves functional ambulation to a greater extent than traditional physical therapy in individuals after traumatic brain injury.

Design: A randomized, open-label, controlled, cohort study was conducted at two inpatient university-based rehabilitation hospitals. A total of 38 adults with a primary diagnosis of traumatic brain injury and significant gait abnormalities received either 8 wks of standard physical therapy or physical therapy supplemented with partial weight-bearing gait training twice weekly.

Results: Significant (P < 0.05) improvements were detected in both groups on Functional Ambulation Category, Standing Balance Scale, Rivermead Mobility Index, and FIM. However, no differences were found between the treatment groups.

Conclusions: Results did not support the hypothesis that 8 wks of partial weight-bearing gait retraining improves functional ambulation to a greater extent than traditional physical therapy in individuals after traumatic brain injury based on common clinical measures.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Injuries / complications*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / etiology*
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / rehabilitation*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Recovery of Function
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Walking / education*
  • Weight-Bearing*