Cycle and Stroke With Biofeedback for Power Symmetry

Specific Aim 1 will determine the change in cycling power using BFB on a group of participants with stroke in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility. Specific Aim 2 will determine the effect size of the change in gait symmetry with cycling training with power BFB pre- to post-cycle intervention. Specific Aim 3 will determine the effect size of the change in functional mobility with cycling training with power BFB pre- to post-cycle intervention. Understanding the impact of cycle training with power BFB is an important step in improving stroke rehabilitation. This study is significant because it will provide data about power asymmetries in participants' early post-acute stroke and the transfer of training with power BFB to gait impairments.

Inclusion criteria

• they have a confirmed MCA or ACA ischemic or intracerebral hemorrhagic stroke, confirmed by CT/MRI or clinical documentation

-AND demonstrating lower extremity hemiparesis [< 100 on lower limb Motricity Index24]

• 18 to 70 years of age
• a Functional Ambulation Category of 2 (Dependent Level II) through 5 (Independent Level surfaces only)
• medical clearance to participate

Exclusion criteria

• contractures that limit lower limb range of motion
• cardiovascular, respiratory or metabolic instability, including unstable angina or hypertension above 200/110 at rest
• uncontrolled diabetes
• severe respiratory disorders that limit exercise
• inability to ambulate > 150 feet prior to stroke
• prior history of peripheral or central nervous system injury
• moderate to severe hemispatial neglect according to the Kessler Foundation Neglect Assessment
• major cognitive impairment preventing the capability to understand training instructions; identified by inability to follow 3-step command
• severe aphasia preventing communication with the therapist.