Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the temporospatial gait parameters in patients with HD in comparison with healthy control.

Background: Gait disturbance is main factor contributing to a negative impact on quality of life in patients with Huntington disease (HD). Understanding of temporospatial parameters of gait in HD is essential for planning successful gait strategy.

Methods: We investigated 6 patients with Huntington’s disease who are confirmed by genetic study, measured the Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale(UHDRS) and assessed gait by gait analyzer (GairRite. :CIR system, Inc. – 12fit AP1105). We compared the parameters with those of 6 age, sex-matched normal control.

Results: The values of CoV of step length, stride length and base of support, %GC of stance time and double support time were significantly increased in the HD patients groups compared to healthy older adults group. The values of walking velocity and %GC of swing time were significantly decreased in the HD patients groups. The values of %GC of single support time and cadence were no significant difference between two groups. There were no significant associations between UHDRS score (Motor, functional, behavioral assessments sections) and gait parameters.

Conclusions: The increases of CoV values of base of support, stance time and double support time could suggest the gait pattern of HD as ataxic gait disorder. The gap between velocity and cadence reflect the ineffectiveness of gait in HD patients. The UHDRS was not suitable for assessing the gait features of HD. Quantitative gait analysis will be necessary to assess gait problems in HD.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/gait-analysis-in-patients-with-huntingtons-disease/