What is this study about? This study compares two common ways of practicing walking and balance after a stroke: (1) dual-task training, where a person walks or balances while doing a second task (such as counting backward or carrying a light object), and (2) single-task training, where a person practices walking and balance without any extra task. The goal is to learn whether practicing with or without an added task is more practical and acceptable for people living with long-standing weakness on one side of the body (hemiplegia) after stroke. Why is this important? Many everyday activities-walking while talking, looking for a bus, or carrying a bag-require attention to more than one thing at a time. Some stroke survivors find this difficult. Training that safely mimics real-life multitasking may help therapists design better rehabilitation plans. Who can take part? Adults aged 45-65 years with a diagnosis of hemiplegic stroke who can walk without hands-on help may be eligible. People with other neurological conditions that affect walking, severe problems with understanding or communication, or recent serious medical/surgical issues will not be included. Additional screening will check safety for exercise. What will happen if I join? Participants are randomly assigned (like a coin toss) to one of two groups: Dual-task training group: walking/balance activities plus a simple cognitive or motor task. Single-task training group: the same walking/balance activities without any extra task. Both groups attend 60-minute sessions, three times per week, for six weeks at The University of Lahore Teaching Hospital or Sehat Medical Complex. A trained therapist supervises all sessions and adjusts difficulty gradually. Short rest breaks are provided. What will be measured? At baseline, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks, an assessor who does not know the assigned group will record walking and balance using the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA). Safety (such as any falls, dizziness, or discomfort) and attendance will also be recorded. What are the possible risks and benefits? Risks are similar to supervised physiotherapy: temporary muscle soreness, fatigue, or loss of balance. Therapists use safety measures (close supervision, stable equipment, and rest periods). Participants may experience the general benefits of structured rehabilitation (practice, education, and monitored activity). Taking part is voluntary, and usual care remains available. Privacy and cost Personal information is kept confidential and stored securely. There is no payment for participation. There are no charges for study-related therapy sessions. Time commitment About 18 sessions over 6 weeks, plus four short assessment visits. Contacts Study team members can answer questions at any time and will obtain written informed consent before any study procedures begin.
Age range
45 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Change in Balance Performance (Tinetti Balance Subscore)
Timeframe: Baseline, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks
Change in Gait Performance (Tinetti Gait Subscore)
Timeframe: Baseline, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks