S o m e m e t h o d s a n d m e a n s o f t e c h n i c a l s u p p o r t i n r e h a b i l i-t a t i o n o f g a i t

Summary

Recently some new findings regarding the pathophysiology of gait were revealed which in someways alter our idesa on the control of locomotion. These findings are also a hopeful baseline for newapproaches and principles supplementing classical kinesiotherapeutic concepts. In the submittedreview the authors discuss some mehods of technical and instrumental support of rehabilitation ofpatients with impaired gait. Rhythmic stimulation is involved, in particular auditory rhythmic stimula-tion, as well as the problem of suspension with partial body weight support on a treadmill. The authorsmention also modern approaches to functional electric stimulation, the use of gait orthoses and gaittraining.Certain common principles can be traced:– an attempt of most frequently possible verticalization and bipedal locomotion inpatients not walkingotherwise, as the vertical position and bipedal locomotion are from the physiological and kinesiolo-gical and psychological aspectmost natural for man;– inhibition of the spasticity in particular in antigravitation muscles, restriction of pahologicalco-contractions;– external induction of a more physiological rhythm of gait, a more naturalů an more advantageouspattern of locomotion and proportions of the gait cycle, mechanical by various variants of electricstimulation e.g. by sound.In the near future we may foresee further development, more accurate indications, in some instancesalso wider application in practice. However, the main pillar of hih standard physiotherapy of gaitremains the immediate and patient’s cooperation and a skilled, empathic therapist.

Key words:
auditory rhythmic stimulation, EMG feedback, functional electric stimulation,