Energy expenditure by stroke survivors when walking

Are you a stroke survivor interested in finding out how much energy you use while walking?

Physiotherapists at The University of Queensland are looking for stroke survivors to participate in a project investigating how much energy stroke survivors use when walking at different speeds, and seeing if devices can accurately measure this outcome after stroke.

Why?

After stroke, changes such as muscle weakness, spasticity, changes in brain function, fatigue, altered heart and lung function, and a reduced ability to exercise can result in higher energy requirements to perform everyday tasks such as walking. However, these exact changes are not understood.

Also, devices like Fitbits and Smartphone apps are increasingly being used to help assist stroke survivors to remain active after they return home. However, we do not know how accurate these devices are for use after stroke. This is needed to ensure that safe and appropriate guidelines are provided to stroke survivors to ensure they are exercising at the right intensity to ensure they remain healthy and prevent chronic disease.

What will you be required to do?

The study requires participants to attend a 1.5 to 2 hour assessment at The University of Queensland, St Lucia campus, and wear some lightweight devices which will measure their walking and how much oxygen their body is consuming during different walking tasks.

Contact

If you would like more information, or are interested in participating, please contact Katrina Kemp via telephone on 07 3365 2779 or email k.kemp@uq.edu.au.