Cognitive functions and explicit locomotor learning after stroke

• Grant number: 24/02287-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: June 28, 2024
• End date: December 20, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Ana Maria Forti Barela
• Grantee: Ana Maria Forti Barela
• Host Investigator: Darcy Reisman
• Host Institution: Pró-Reitoria de Pós-Graduação e Pesquisa. Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul (UNICSUL). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Delaware (UD), United States

Abstract

The aim of this research project is to examine the relationship between cognitive functions and locomotor learning in individuals post stroke, through an explicit learning paradigm. Thus, a distorted visual feedback paradigm will be employed in post-stroke individuals, who will walk on a motorized treadmill with a monitor in front of them providing real-time information about the step length of each leg and a target line that should be reached. Considering that post-stroke individuals may present asymmetrical step length during walking, the leg that presents shorter steps will be manipulated, so that the feedback regarding it will present a shorter step than it is (inducing the performer to increase the step length). The contralateral leg will not be manipulated, and the feedback will correspond to the length of the step that was performed. On two consecutive days, 24 hours apart, post-stroke individuals will walk on the treadmill. The first day will comprise three phases: (1) baseline, (2) learning and (3) retention ("retention 1"), and the second day will comprise only the retention phase ("retention 2"). Between 1 and 7 days from the beginning of participation in the study, these individuals will be conducted to specific cognitive tests, which will be considered in subsequent analyzes using complex multivariate models to verify the possible relationships between cognitive functions and the explicit learning of post-stroke individual.