Physiological Cost Index of Walking in Stroke Patients and their Functional Ambulation Category

Abstract

Background: Mobility, defined as the ability to walk safely and independently, is integral to the
performance of basic activities of daily living.An interruption in the normal gait cycle and the energy
conserving characteristics of the trunk and limb motion results in an increased energy expenditure.
Objective: The objective of the study was to compare the Physiological Cost Index(PCI) of walking in
stroke survivors with their Functional Ambulation Category(FAC).
Design:Cross Sectional Study
Methods: 30 participants meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study. The
participants were graded on FAC. Their heart rate(HR) was recorded pre- and post- 6-Minute-Walk-
Test(6MWT). The distance walked was measured and recorded. The PCI was calculated and the data
was subjected to statistical analysis.
Results: The mean PCI of all the participants was 0.72(±0.68). A moderate negative correlation existed
between the PCI and FAC. The category of FAC increased as the patients PCI of walking decreased.
Conclusion: Increased PCI values could imply lower functional mobility scores on FAC. Therapeutic
interventions that alter PCI values and interventions that effectively reduce energy consumption could
be identified for better rehabilitation outcomes.