The Elm

We are conducting a study to learn about weight shifting in stroke survivors. The information collected will guide the development of future interventions aimed at improving walking speed in stroke survivors.

For this study, we are recruiting the following:

• Three healthy male volunteers between the ages of 48 to 54, 55 to 61, and 62 to 68 years of age are needed for a single visit. We will pay for parking, provide a snack and water, and $25 in compensation. The visit will take about 90 minutes.
• Individuals who had a stroke more than six months ago. We will pay for parking and provide a snack and water at each visit, and total compensation of $250 upon completion.

Study participants must be able to stand unassisted for five minutes and not have any medical condition that prevents them from participating in regular exercise.  

During testing, we will collect various clinical measures (step up on to a step test, gait evaluation, sensation test, and motor recovery), and assessment of weight transfer and stepping reactions. We will place sensors that measure movement and muscle activity. The sensors are secured to you with double-sided tape. In the weight transfer tests, you will stand on top of a platform that will rapidly lower the left or right leg 2 inches, forcing you to transfer your weight to the dropped side. In the stepping reaction test, you will be asked to step as rapidly as possible following a light cue.

If interested, please contact Dr. James Borrelli at jborrelli@som.umaryland.edu