Sensory Deficit

The primary objective of this new line of research is to test whether augmenting sensory information from the legs, using Walkasins sensory neuroprosthesis, can enhance performance of a complex walking task in older adults with foot sensory impairment. The overarching hypothesis is that Walkasins will enhance the automaticity and reduce cognitive demand of walking in older adults with foot sensory impairments, as measured by reduced prefrontal activity, decreased dual-task costs, and lower gait variability.

Parallel-group, single-blinded controlled clinical trial. The study includes people aged 18-80 years, more than one month after stroke, with confirmed diagnosis, MoCA ≥ 20, and Barthel Index ≥ 3. The control group receives standard rehabilitation. The experimental group also receives active sensory training with programmable electrical stimulation to simulate virtual textures. Sensory function was assessed before and after the training using standard tests, including Fugl-Meyer, ARAT, 9HPT, and monofilament testing.