1Faculty of Physiotherapy, Marwadi University, Rajkot - 360003, Gujarat, India
*Corresponding Author Email: Rahul.chhatlani111476@marwadiuniversity.ac.in
Received: 12th Dec, 2025; Revised: 12th Feb 2026; Accepted: 13th Feb, 2026; Available Online: 10th March, 2026
Stroke survivors often face significant challenges with mobility, and walking aids are commonly prescribed to support ambulation and functional independence. However, the decision to prescribe such aids is frequently based on subjective clinical judgment rather than evidence-based criteria. This research focused to develop and evaluate a predictive model to assist clinicians in prescribing walking aids for stroke patients. The study involved twenty participants undergoing rehabilitation at a clinical facility in Rajkot, India. A comprehensive assessment was conducted, examining variables such as age, affected and dominant side, balance impairments, comorbidities, fear of falling, intrinsic motivation, socioeconomic status, spasticity, Brunnstrom recovery stage, proprioception, visual limitations, walking capacity, activities of daily living (ADL), and the patient's own preference for aid. These factors were evaluated through standardized clinical measures and tests. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 23. The findings revealed that intrinsic motivation, proprioception, and fear of falling were significantly associated with the need for walking assistance (p < 0.05). These variables emerged as key predictors in the model. The study contributes a preliminary framework for predicting the necessity of walking aid prescription in stroke survivors, offering potential for improving clinical decision-making. While the small sample size and localized population limit the generalizability of the results, the model holds promise for practical implementation in rehabilitation settings. Future studies with larger, diverse populations are recommended to refine and validate the model. The proposed approach also has social implications, potentially enhancing patient safety, independence, and quality of life through personalized rehabilitation strategies.
Keywords: Stroke, Walking Aids, Predictive Model, Activities of Daily Living, Gait
How to cite this article: Chhatlani R, Kakkad A. Determinants of Walking Aid Selection During Acute Stroke Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(3): 702. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.3.77
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None