Methods | Method: RCT, parallel‐group design Method of randomisation: by a computer‐generated randomisation scheme that was stratified by walking speed (less than 0.44 m/s and more than or equal to 0.44 m/s) and age (less than 65 years and more than or equal to 65 years) Drop outs: 27 drop outs at the end of the treatment phase Blinding of outcome assessors: no ITT: no |
Participants | Country: USA 29 participants in the EXP group and 24 participants in the CTL group Inclusion criteria: chronic ischaemic stroke (more than 6 months); residual mild to moderate hemiplegic gait deficits; completion of all conventional physiotherapy; independently ambulant with or without a gait aid or stand‐by help Exclusion criteria: vascular surgery; vascular disorders in the lower extremities; symptomatic peripheral arterial occlusive disease |
Interventions | Treated as outpatients for 3 x 40‐minute sessions per week for 6 months Treadmill training (EXP): participants walked on a treadmill to achieve a target aerobic intensity of 60% to 70% heart rate reserve (progressive aerobic training); no body weight support was provided using a harness Conventional physiotherapy (CTL): participants completed an exercise programme consisting of 13 targeted active and passive supervised stretching movements of the upper and lower body |
Outcomes | Assessed at baseline and after treatment phase:
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Notes |