Examining the factors that influence stroke survivor's walking in their homes and communities

Purpose

Physical therapy interventions to improve walking after stroke are typically designed to focus on impairments such as endurance, strength, speed, or balance. However, walking restrictions after a stroke are only partially related to these impairments. As such, improving these impairments does not necessarily result in increased walking in individuals' homes or communities. The goal of this study is to more thoroughly examine factors related to real-world walking, including motivation, confidence, and fatigue. This research will provide insight to better translate the improvements made during physical therapy to real-world activity.

Keywords: stroke, rehabilitation, physical therapy, walking, gait, rehab

Study Sites

1540 Alcazar St. CHP 155, Los Angeles, CA 90033

 
  • Men & Women
Age icon
18 - 85
 
 
We are seeking individuals who are at least 6 months after stroke and can walk independently for at least 2 minutes at a time
 

What's involved?

Study length

  • up to 1 month

Number of visits

  • 2-3 visits, each lasting 3-4 hours

Prescription

  • none

Procedures

  • Surveys

  • Clinical assessments (walking, balance, speed)

  • Walking monitoring (wearable sensor)

  • Interview

  • MRI (if eligible)

Compensation

  • Compensation is available for each study visit.

Medical cost coverage

  • None

Why participate?

We are recruiting stroke survivors in Southern California for a study to better understand the factors that influence individuals' walking in their homes and communities after stroke #strokerecovery #strokeresearch https://sites.usc.edu/grmllab/research/

Eligibility

Must have

  • Age 18-85
  • >6 months post stroke
  • Able to walk independently (including use of assistive devices)
  • Able to walk 2 minutes without stopping

Can't have

  • Uncontrolled hypertension (>160/100mmHg)
  • Stroke in the brainstem or cerebellum
  • Orthopedic or pain condition that limits walking
  • Other neurologic condition

Study Team

Photohandler
Principal Investigator
Kristan Leech

For questions about this study, contact:

  • IRB number: UP-24-00213
  • Study posted on: March 11, 2026
  • Recruitment period: January 2026-April 2028

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