Improving walking and balance after a stroke using backward walking training

Brain and Behavioral Responses to Backward Walking Training Post-Stroke

NIH-funded research Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10988222

This study is testing a special training program that teaches people recovering from a stroke to walk backward, with the goal of helping them move better and feel more balanced, while also figuring out how many sessions they need to see improvements.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10988222 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a unique training program that focuses on backward walking to enhance mobility and balance in individuals recovering from a stroke. The program aims to determine the optimal number of training sessions needed to improve both forward and backward walking speed, as well as dynamic balance. Additionally, the study will explore how brain imaging can predict individual responses to this training, helping to identify which patients may benefit the most. By conducting a randomized controlled trial, the research seeks to provide evidence-based recommendations for stroke rehabilitation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced an acute stroke and are undergoing rehabilitation for mobility and balance impairments.

Not a fit: Patients who are not recovering from a stroke or those with severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies that enhance mobility and reduce fall risk for stroke survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that innovative rehabilitation techniques like backward walking training can be effective, but this specific approach is still being explored for its full potential.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions balance disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.