[Correction of gait stereotype and reduction of the risk of falling in patients with equinovarus foot placement and central hemiparesis].

OBJECTIVE: To test a new approach to gait stereotype correction for patients with central hemiparesis with talipes equinovarus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was performed in a group of patients with formed talipes equinovarus and post-stroke hemiparesis. Footwear with orthopaedic elements was offered to the patients. Evaluation of spatial and temporal gait parameters was performed and the risk of falls was assessed.

RESULTS: In the process of work, data were obtained confirming the effectiveness of using specialized shoes for equinovarus foot placement. The risk of falling significantly decreased when walking; walking became more symmetrical due to an increase in the anterior extension of the paretic limb.

CONCLUSION: Application of this method does not decrease the tone in the paretic limb but optimises the gait stereotype, facilitates the increases of its velocity and decreases the risk of falling.