Abstract
Objective: To develop a nomogram model that predicts the timing of independent level-ground walking, even in patients with severe hemiplegic stroke, including acute cases, based on information obtained at the start of Welwalk training.
Methods: The subjects included 79 patients admitted to the acute ward of the hospital who underwent Welwalk training. Study outcomes were acquisition of level walking independence at 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after onset, and we developed a nomogram model to predict acquisition rates based on basic information, physical functions, and cognitive functions at the start of Welwalk training.
Results: Age, days since onset, Stroke Impairment Assessment Set trunk item total, Functional Independence Measure cognitive item total, and Gait Ability Assessment at the start of Welwalk training were found to be significant predictors of future acquisition rates. A nomogram model for predicting level walking independence was successfully developed.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that, even in patients with severe hemiplegic stroke—including acute cases—walking independence on level ground could be predicted at multiple time points using a nomogram based on information at the start of Welwalk training. These findings suggest the model’s clinical usefulness for discharge planning and setting rehabilitation goals.
