The aim of the vibration intervention proposed in the current study is to allow a better neuromotor recovery in subacute stroke patients when compared with standard rehabilitation alone. These last years, it has been proven that the solicitation of a muscle using vibrations may lead to positive effects on the neuromuscular function. Thus, the aim of the current study is to assess if the addition to a standard rehabilitation program of local vibrations sessions of the dorsiflexor muscles of the paretic limb of stroke patients may allow a better recovery of walking speed (primary outcome). One group using vibrations (i.e. experimental group) and one group with sham vibration (i.e. control group) will take part to this study.
Stroke patients in subacute rehabilitation phase (between 14 days and 3 months post-stroke)
Presenting with a stroke, ischemic or hemorrhagic
Lower-limb deficiency with an initial motor testing < 4 according to the MRC scale
No neurological history with functional impact other than stroke
Multiple stroke
Other neurological, cognitive or psychiatric conditions
Orthopedic ankle history compromising measurements
Botulinum toxin injected in the lower limb prior the study protocol
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint Etienne
Lead sponsor
Ministry of Health, France
Collaborator