Tarsal fusion for pes equinovarus deformity improves gait capacity in chronic stroke patients

摘要

BackgroundGait impairments are common and disabling in chronic stroke patients. Pes equinovarus deformity is one of the primary motor deficits underlying reduced gait capacity after stroke. It predisposes to stance-phase instability and subsequent ankle sprain or falls. This instability is most pronounced when walking barefoot. Tarsal fusion is a recommended treatment option for varus deformity, but scientific evidence is sparse. We therefore evaluated whether a tarsal fusion improved barefoot walking capacity in chronic stroke patients with pes equinovarus deformity.